Queen Elizabeth marks 60 years on throne

Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 60th anniversary on the British throne on 6 February by issuing a statement promising to dedicate herself to the country's service.

In the statement released by Buckingham Palace, the queen said: "In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope that we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness."

It was on this day 60 years ago that the queen learnt of her father George VI's death and became the British monarch.

The day will be commemorated with two visits by the queen and her husband prince Philip to King's Lynn Town Hall and the Dersingham Infant and Nursery school in Norfolk.

Two official photographs have also been released, while a 41-gun salute will be held in Hyde Park, London and a further 61-gun salute at the Tower of London.

Throughout 2012, the queen's Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated across the UK, culminating in a four-day Bank Holiday weekend in June.

She was crowned at Westminster Abbey on 2 June 1952.