If 1992 was the Queen's 'annus horribilis', then 2011 has surely been her 'annus mirabilis'. Her family turned out en masse at Canongate Kirk for the marriage of Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall.
Great excitement mounted along the Royal Mile as the well-wishers waited to catch a glimpse of the royal party. After struggling with their public image for years, the Windsors have seen their popularity soar following Prince William's wedding.
And cheers went up as they started to arrive at the historic Edinburgh church. The royals were each greeted by the Reverend Neil Gardener – officiating the ceremony – and a small troupe of pipers, playing outside.
Among the first to arrive at Canongate Kirk were Prince Andrew with his two daughters Beatrice and Eugenie, and the Earl and Countess of Wessex.
They appeared shortly before the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge – known as the Earl and Countess of Strathearn in Scotland – who were joined by Prince Harry.
The bride's proud mother Princess Anne looked summery in an elegant pleated skirt and jacket and was escorted by her husband Timothy Laurence.
She was followed by Zara's uncle Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, - wearing a striking fascinator - who waved happily to the crowds.Zara's attendants - five bridesmaids and one page boy - arrived moments before the Queen and Prince Philip pulled up outside the venue.
A huge cheer went up as the monarch, wreathed in smiles and dressed in a pink Stuart Parvin dress coat, and her husband stepped out of their car. The Queen was last to arrive, with the exception of the radiant bride.
