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ROYAL YEAR IN PHOTOS: February

The past year has brought many royal memories and some of the most important moments in recent times. February gave us a unique anniversary for a truly historic Monarch as well as a very special moment for a queen in waiting.

History made by Queen Elizabeth II

Royal Communications / Getty / Handout

On February 6th 2022, Queen Elizabeth II became the only British Monarch to reign for 70 years. The anniversary of her accession was spent quietly at Sandringham, despite worldwide interest in a truly special event. However, the Platinum Jubilee queen was seen – she hosted a tea party on the eve of the anniversary while the day itself saw the release of a portrait which showed her doing what she’s always done, getting on with business. There was a statement, too, which called for her daughter-in-law, Camilla, to be queen consort in due course and which reaffirmed Elizabeth II’s lifelong commitment to duty. It was signed ‘Your Servant, Elizabeth R’.

Half a century for a queen in waiting

Photo by Hasse Nielsen ©

Denmark continued its royal celebrations into February as its Crown Princess turned fifty. A string of events marked the half century of the royal born Mary Elizabeth Donaldson while the future queen consort starred in a series of portraits for the milestone birthday. Crown Princess Mary later said that turning 50 ”is not so crazy” and gave effusive thanks for the flood of warm wishes sent her way on her special day.

A milestone birthday for an heir

Sara Friberg/Kungl. Hovstaterna

Just weeks later, it was the turn of Mary’s goddaughter to enjoy a milestone birthday. Princess Estelle of Sweden is the first female heir born to a female heir in the country’s history. She is second in line to the throne behind her mother, Crown Princess Victoria, but as she turned ten, it was her proud grandparents who sat alongside her for a photo for the history books.

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About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.