Queen Elizabeth turns 94, requests no fanfare in respect of pandemic victims
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Queen Elizabeth II turns 94 today but celebrations have been muted by the current spreading of the coronavirus pandemic around the country. Elizabeth who holds numerous records related to her longevity and age as a reigning monarch, rarely seeks much fanfare for her special day, but this year, in remembrance of all the victims of the pandemic, she asked the traditional ceremonial gun salutes, where blank rounds are fired from various locations across London, to be scrapped.
The UK has already endured one month of lockdown, with businesses – except those providing essential items – closed.
Officials have also withdrawn the traditional guidance related to flags on top of government buildings, showing understanding that under current circumstances not everyone might be able to arrange for that to happen.
Buckingham Palace said the Queen will be spending her 94th birthday at Windsor Castle, with her 98-year-old husband, Prince Philip. From this location she recently issued a spirted and encouraging message to the nation, in what was only her fifth televised address during an incredible 68-year on Britain’s throne.
The Queen surpassed her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, to become the longest-lived British monarch on 21 December 2007, and the longest-reigning British monarch on 9 September 2015. On 23 April 2019, she became the oldest living monarch following the death of Jean, Grand Duke of Luxembourg.
