The Queen has thanked the British public for their “support and kindness” following the death of Prince Philip in her first public statement since his funeral last week.
In a message posted on Twitter to mark her 95th birthday, the Queen said her family was in a period of “great sadness” but they had been comforted by the tributes paid to her husband from around the world.
The royal family gathered at St George's Chapel in Windsor on Saturday to say their final farewell to the Duke of Edinburgh, who died on 9 April, aged 99 years old.
“I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate,” the Queen said.
“While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world.”
She added: “My family and I would like to thank you for all the support and kindness shown to us in recent days.
“We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life.”
The monarch’s birthday has fallen within the two-week period of royal mourning, which is being observed until Friday, so no photographs are expected to be released to mark the milestone.
Following the duke’s death, members of the public left floral tributes with cards and letters at royal palaces, and an online book of condolence was opened to offer people the opportunity to share their memories of him.
On Wednesday, Boris Johnson said he was “proud” to serve as the Queen’s prime minister as he celebrated her birthday.
“I would like to send my warm wishes to Her Majesty The Queen on her 95th birthday,” Mr Johnson wrote on Twitter.
“I have always had the highest admiration for Her Majesty and her service to this country and the Commonwealth. I am proud to serve as her prime minister.”
Additional reporting by PA
