Celebrating 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II capped off the UK's weekend of festivities in her honour with a message of gratitude and hope. The 96-year-old monarch said she is "deeply humbled and deeply touched" by the outpouring of love despite her missing a few key events because of her reported health issues.

"When it comes to how to mark seventy years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow. It really is a first. But I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee," the Queen said in an official statement.

"While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family."

The long weekend of festivities, which began on Thursday, marked the many milestones of Queen Elizabeth II's reign since 1953. Spanning seven decades, her leadership from the throne is deemed the third-longest in modern history. She was instrumental in inspiring a new sense of vigour among Britons in the years after the Second World War.

Her Platinum Jubilee celebration began with a military parade of 1,400 troops and an 82-gun salute, along with a show of support from the UK's "national treasures," key figures who have also made a mark in the country's culture and history. 

The public was treated to a series of revelries and "Big Jubilee Lunches" in the streets of London. A total of 16,000 attended the events. 

Meanwhile, other celebrations were held around the world in countries such as Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan and Brazil.

"I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come," the Queen said.

The monarch has had to cut short her appearance at some events due to "episodic mobility issues," British media reported. She remains jubilant, however, despite having contracted COVID earlier this year.

Heir Prince Charles paid tribute to the Queen, saying: "You pledged to serve your whole life; you continue to deliver. That is why we are here."

Your Majesty, Mummy,

The scale of this evening's celebration - and the outpouring of warmth and affection over this whole Jubilee weekend - is our way of saying thank you - from your family, the country, the Commonwealth, in fact the whole world.

- HRH The Prince of Wales pic.twitter.com/R3nre4jIsD

— The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) June 4, 2022