The Queen's 90th birthday celebrations may have been hit by heavy rain, but revellers at the Patron's Lunch didn't let the downpours dampen their spirits. Covered by plastic ponchos and patriotic Union Jack umbrellas, some 10,000 guests braved the wet weather for the festivities on the Mall.
There was a great atmosphere among the crowd, who waved Union Jack flags and cheered while watching a parade which symbolised the Queen's reign through the decades from the 1950s until present day.
© Photo: Getty ImagesGuests were in high spirits despite the rain
It included a Commonwealth theme in the 1950s, flower power in the 1960s, and animals and nature in the 1970s – with those taking part covering up their costumes with clear plastic ponchos.
The event has been organised by the Queen's grandson Peter Phillips in recognition of Her Majesty's patronage of more than 600 organisations in the UK and around the Commonwealth. Peter told reporters that he was disappointed by the rain, but was optimistic that the weather would soon improve.
© Photo: Getty ImagesDame Esther Rantzen braved the wet weather in a plastic poncho
"I'm soaked. It's the British weather isn't it? It's such a shame, it obviously would have been better if it was dry," Peter said, adding: "But I'm sure it'll stop soon and the show must go on!"
Guests included Dame Esther Rantzen, the founder of children's charity ChildLine, who appeared in high spirits with Union Jack deely boppers over her plastic poncho. The attendees were treated to a hamper-style lunch on The Mall and lined up for cups of tea to keep warm in the unseasonably chilly June temperatures.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe Queen peeked out of the window of Buckingham Palace
Members of the royal family including the Queen, Prince Andrew and Princess Beatrice were all seen peeking out of the windows at Buckingham Palace to catch a glimpse at the crowds earlier in the afternoon, as they prepared to walk along The Mall and take their seats in the Royal Box.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe guests will get to meet members of the royal family
The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will arrive in their open topped state review vehicle before joining the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry on the Admiralty Arch Stage for official thanks and speeches.
© Photo: Getty ImagesA very excited royal fan!
They will then lead the parade down the Mall and take their seats in the royal box to watch the procession reach its impressive finale.
