In 1952, the sudden death of King George VI changed Elizabeth's life for ever. The monarch was just 25 when she came to the throne. Winston Churchill was her first prime minister.

The arrival of the 1960s found Britain in an optimistic mood. Post-war austerity had given way to something of a consumer boom and the times were changing.

The 1970s were a mix of gloom and glitter. The Queen and Prince Philip celebrated 25 years of marriage, and their daughter, Princess Anne, wed fellow equestrian Mark Phillips.

When the 80s began, there was one question on everybody's lips: whom would Prince Charles, the world's most eligible bachelor, take for a bride? We soon had our answer and Lady Diana Spencer became famous around the world.

The 90s began joyously for the Queen, as she welcomed her 6th grandchild and prepared for her 40th year on the throne.

The new millennium witnessed powerful events for Queen and country. The whole nation celebrated the 100th birthday of the Queen Mother in 2000.