LONG may she continue to reign over us.
That was the overarching view of millions of people after four days of celebration to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Many of the scenes were strongly reminiscent of footage of her Coronation 70 years ago.
Her Majesty unites our country in a way a President never could, and hopefully never will.
From Trooping the Colour and the flypast, to the service of Thanksgiving, the party at the Palace and the final extravaganza in the Mall, we do this so well.
The entire country played its part, whether waving flags in the Mall or attending local street parties.
I was kindly invited to one in Chelmsford Street in Weymouth, which was run from their community centre.
Residents were in party mood and nothing was going to dampen their spirits, not even the rain which fell on the dot of 3pm.
Together, the festivities showed that the vast majority of us remain overwhelmingly proud of our Queen and hold her in the greatest affection.
For me, the highlight was the Queen’s appearance on the balcony to watch the flypast.
Three future kings stood beside her.
I was in the Mall at the time, and the cheers rose to a crescendo that would have been heard for miles around.
After two dark years coping with the pandemic, such a demonstration of unity and strength was not only welcome, but needed.
We have been fortunate to have lived in peace for so many years, led by a wise and dutiful monarch.
On Monday, I returned to a divided and self-indulgent Commons.
We have much to learn from Her Majesty.