David Bailey photographs the Queen for her official Sapphire Jubilee portrait

<i>This portrait by David Bailey has been re-released for the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee [Photo: Twitter/RoyalFamily]</i>
This portrait by David Bailey has been re-released for the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee [Photo: Twitter/RoyalFamily]

Today marks 65 years since the Queen came to power. And the monarch’s Sapphire Jubilee photo has just been announced.

The picture, taken by world-renowned photographer David Bailey, sees the Queen fittingly in matching sapphire pieces. The jewellery was given to her by her father, King George VI, in 1947 as a wedding present.

The unmissable necklace is made up of 16 huge sapphires surrounded by diamonds. The Queen also wears a matching pair of earrings.

The image was originally taken in 2014 as part of the government’s GREAT campaign and was released as part of the Queen’s 88th birthday celebrations.

<i>Prince William viewing the original portrait in 2015 [Photo: PA]</i>
Prince William viewing the original portrait in 2015 [Photo: PA]

David Bailey said he had “always been a huge fan of the Queen”, adding: “She has very kind eyes with a mischievous glint. I’ve always liked strong women, and she is a very strong woman.”

Queen Elizabeth II is the first British monarch to reach a Sapphire Jubilee, becoming the nation’s longest-running monarch in 2015.

The Queen will be spending the day privately at her Sandringham estate as she does on every Accession Day. She will return to Buckingham Palace in a few days.

<i>The Queen was gifted with flowers on Sunday in Norfolk [Photo: PA]</i>
The Queen was gifted with flowers on Sunday in Norfolk [Photo: PA]

No large celebrations are expected on this occasion with all events being saved up for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. This will mark 70 years since her accession and will be commemorated with royal gun salutes across the capital.

On Sunday, the monarch was seen attending a church service with the Duke of Edinburgh in Norfolk where she was given flowers by crowds of well-wishers. Wearing an aqua blue coat and dress, she accessorised with an elegant pearl necklace and matching hat.

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