As Queen Elizabeth entered the House of Lords to deliver the Queen’s Speech last week, dressed in ermine and jewels, her husband, Prince Philip, quietly entered beside her and clasped her hand to help her down the stairs.
It was a portrait that defined the Queen and her Prince – Elizabeth shouldering her duties as monarch, and Philip standing beside her, in quiet but devoted support.
It is a love story that has been broadcast, photographed, and documented since their very first correspondence in 1934, but one that has remained private and protected. Since those letters in the 30s, a marriage was celebrated, as was the birth of four children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, and 63 years as Queen and Consort.
And it was clear from their appearance today that Philip and his ‘Lilibet’ are still very much in love.
On the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, we take a walk down memory lane…
Holding her hand, Prince Philip gently guided his wife, Queen Elizabeth, into the House of Lords.
Wearing the crown jewels, and his military regalia, the pair looked very well matched.
After a string of love letters sent back and forth (which is how Prince Philip is rumoured to have won her heart), Elizabeth and her military sweetheart, Prince Philip of Denmark and Greece, became engaged.
Prince Philip abandoned his Danish and Greek princely titles and fell back on his military rank, Lieutenant, in order to marry the Princess Elizabeth.
Elizabeth and Philip were married on 20 November 1947 at Westminster Abbey. Their wedding took place at the end of the second world war and Elizabeth required ration coupons to buy the material of her dress.
Five years later, Princess Elizabeth’s father, George VI, died, and at the age of 25, became Queen of England.
Elizabeth and Philip had four children together, Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward.
Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Prince Edward in 1971.
Lilibet is obviously still enamored by her Prince.
And she looks to stay that way.
