When the glittering coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place on 2 June 1953 at Westminster Abbey, she became only the sixth woman in history to ascend to the British throne.
It was the first coronation ever to be televised, and the jubilant occasion almost 70 years ago was watched by 27 million people in the UK, with 11 million tuned in via radio.
Many of those who remember the event describe it as a much-needed celebration which signified a new optimism for Britain’s post-war recovery.
The Queen had ascend ed to the throne upon the death of her father, King George VI, on 6 February the previous year. Get exclusive celebrity stories and fabulous photoshoots straight to your inbox with OK!'s daily newsletter.The coronation of any new sovereign always takes place many months later, allowing for a period of mourning and for the ceremony to be planned with military precision.
Read more on ok.co.uk