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Queen's diamond jubilee state procession and thanksgiving – live Queen's diamond jubilee state procession and thanksgiving – as they happened
(40 minutes later)
3.48pm: Some final words from Peter Walker:
And then the finale - the fly past, culminating in the Red Arrows trailing red, white and blue smoke. Followed by a mass, tuneless singalong to the national anthem, punctuated by frankly terrifying gun volleys.
The fly-past was quite something, and the crowd was quite emotional. The Queen herself, as ever, looked impassive, leaving it to the younger royals to wave. But in the end, a rousing, crowd-led hip, hip hooray gets a grin from HM. Before she gave a final wave and moved indoors."
And with that - it's over. Well, for another decade at least. Now back to work you lot.
3.34pm: The feu de joie commences and flocks of pigeons across the capital take cover.
3.32pm: Peter has filed this above the roars of the crowd:
And they're out! There was some building excitement as the balcony wave approached, and even a few 'We want the Queen!' shouts, though not nearly as much as for the newlyweds when I was last here, for the royal wedding.
The cheers rise in volume as she waves.
3.30pm: The fly-past has begun with a Lancaster bomber, and four Spitfires followed by a Hurricane to come.
I hope my grandad is watching.
3.24pm: Peter Walker has found someone's shoulders to stand on, on the Mall. Of course, it's now really really raining for the grand finale.3.24pm: Peter Walker has found someone's shoulders to stand on, on the Mall. Of course, it's now really really raining for the grand finale.
With the crowds right up to the gates and the flags waving, for the first time today the slightly subdued atmosphere at Buckingham Palace is finally festive. The Irish Guards were even playing Land of Hope and Glory. Very Last Night of the Proms. Lots of children on parents'
shoulders. Still raining, though.		With the crowds right up to the gates and the flags waving, for the first time today the slightly subdued atmosphere at Buckingham Palace is finally festive. The Irish Guards were even playing Land of Hope and Glory. Very Last Night of the Proms. Lots of children on parents'
shoulders. Still raining, though.
3.13pm: Nearly there now - not long to go. Just waiting for the rumble of the RAF fly-by as the royal family watch from the balcony at Buckingham Palace.3.13pm: Nearly there now - not long to go. Just waiting for the rumble of the RAF fly-by as the royal family watch from the balcony at Buckingham Palace.
This will be followed by a feu de joie - a cascade of rifle fire interspersed by the national anthem - by the Queen's Guard.This will be followed by a feu de joie - a cascade of rifle fire interspersed by the national anthem - by the Queen's Guard.
And then everyone can go home and have a nice cup of tea.And then everyone can go home and have a nice cup of tea.
3.11pm: The BBC is saying it isn't raining, but we know better. Why? That's right – because Peter Walker is there with his typical cheer.3.11pm: The BBC is saying it isn't raining, but we know better. Why? That's right – because Peter Walker is there with his typical cheer.
The crowds which have been allowed slowly down the Mall have finally reached the palace - just as the heavens open. Just 15 minutes of getting soaked before the balcony wave.The crowds which have been allowed slowly down the Mall have finally reached the palace - just as the heavens open. Just 15 minutes of getting soaked before the balcony wave.
3.07pm: Also sounds like the Irish Guards are doing at least as good a job as Sir Cliff last night.3.07pm: Also sounds like the Irish Guards are doing at least as good a job as Sir Cliff last night.
Irish guards band serenading us with what sounds like a medley of theme tunes from 1970s sitcoms #jubileeIrish guards band serenading us with what sounds like a medley of theme tunes from 1970s sitcoms #jubilee
— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012
3.05pm: Thank the LAWD. This in from Peter Walker:3.05pm: Thank the LAWD. This in from Peter Walker:
Flypast will happen, friendly MoD woman confirms. Red Arrows, Spitfires, Lancaster, Hurricane, Dakotas #jubilee should be goodFlypast will happen, friendly MoD woman confirms. Red Arrows, Spitfires, Lancaster, Hurricane, Dakotas #jubilee should be good
— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012
2.57pm: David Cameron has been speaking on the BBC, declaring that the Queen's jubilee has brought out "the best of British".2.57pm: David Cameron has been speaking on the BBC, declaring that the Queen's jubilee has brought out "the best of British".
I think what we have seen is the best of Britain - coming together with community and spirit to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee.I think what we have seen is the best of Britain - coming together with community and spirit to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee.
He recalled camping on the Mall before Charles and Diana's wedding, and added that the Queen was "a real inspiration".He recalled camping on the Mall before Charles and Diana's wedding, and added that the Queen was "a real inspiration".
The prime minister has weekly briefings with the Queen. He said:The prime minister has weekly briefings with the Queen. He said:
Her good old fashioned common sense is difficult to beat.Her good old fashioned common sense is difficult to beat.
2.48pm: STOP PRESS. Peter Walker is at Buckingham Palace. Still. I think he may be getting ideas above his station.2.48pm: STOP PRESS. Peter Walker is at Buckingham Palace. Still. I think he may be getting ideas above his station.
After a very long wait outside the palace, the first sign of action came as the Irish Guards at the front gate snapped to attention. Then we could hear the cheers swell up along the Mall as the royal procession made its progress.After a very long wait outside the palace, the first sign of action came as the Irish Guards at the front gate snapped to attention. Then we could hear the cheers swell up along the Mall as the royal procession made its progress.
Finally, as a light rain began falling, came the open-top carriage, flanked by Lifeguard troops on horseback. The royals have now disappeared into the palace for, at a guess, a quick drink and a finger buffet, before they come out to the balcony.Finally, as a light rain began falling, came the open-top carriage, flanked by Lifeguard troops on horseback. The royals have now disappeared into the palace for, at a guess, a quick drink and a finger buffet, before they come out to the balcony.
With all the crowd some distance away in stands and no one directly in front of the palace, the people closest to the balcony, and the ones they'll see most closely, will actually be us reporters. We'd better wave back with suitable gusto.With all the crowd some distance away in stands and no one directly in front of the palace, the people closest to the balcony, and the ones they'll see most closely, will actually be us reporters. We'd better wave back with suitable gusto.
2.42pm: So the procession has made its way to Buckingham Palace, and the royal family is now expected to watch the fly-past from the balcony.2.42pm: So the procession has made its way to Buckingham Palace, and the royal family is now expected to watch the fly-past from the balcony.
While the BBC are handing around jubilee biscuits. I might have to watch that Jon Stewart video again.While the BBC are handing around jubilee biscuits. I might have to watch that Jon Stewart video again.
2.35pm: Who knew Caitlin Moran was a royalist?2.35pm: Who knew Caitlin Moran was a royalist?
I am ASBOLUTELY down with pageantry, but they need CROWNS and SWORDS and WENCHES and DRAGONS.I am ASBOLUTELY down with pageantry, but they need CROWNS and SWORDS and WENCHES and DRAGONS.
— Caitlin Moran (@caitlinmoran) June 5, 2012— Caitlin Moran (@caitlinmoran) June 5, 2012
2.35pm: The Queen, alongside Camilla, make their way in a horse-drawn carriage down the Mall. Camilla's large hat is somewhat getting in the way.2.35pm: The Queen, alongside Camilla, make their way in a horse-drawn carriage down the Mall. Camilla's large hat is somewhat getting in the way.
2.23pm: Shiv Malik reports that the former deputy prime minister Lord Prescott has written to the home secretary to complain about a security firm that used unpaid jobseekers to steward the Queen's diamond jubilee celebrations in London.2.23pm: Shiv Malik reports that the former deputy prime minister Lord Prescott has written to the home secretary to complain about a security firm that used unpaid jobseekers to steward the Queen's diamond jubilee celebrations in London.
The former deputy prime minister Lord Prescott has written to the home secretary to complain about a security firm that used unpaid jobseekers to steward the Queen's diamond jubilee celebrations in London.The former deputy prime minister Lord Prescott has written to the home secretary to complain about a security firm that used unpaid jobseekers to steward the Queen's diamond jubilee celebrations in London.
He said he was "deeply concerned" by the revelations, published in the Guardian on Tuesday, that up to 30 unpaid jobseekers on the government's work programme were asked to sleep under London Bridge before the river pageant on Sunday.He said he was "deeply concerned" by the revelations, published in the Guardian on Tuesday, that up to 30 unpaid jobseekers on the government's work programme were asked to sleep under London Bridge before the river pageant on Sunday.
He is calling for Theresa May to investigate whether the company has broken the security industry's own employment standards and is urging the government to review the company's contract for the Olympics.He is calling for Theresa May to investigate whether the company has broken the security industry's own employment standards and is urging the government to review the company's contract for the Olympics.
The firm, Close Protection UK (CPUK), has issued "sincere apologies" for what it called the "London Bridge incident", but insisted that it had not been exploiting individuals but providing work experience.The firm, Close Protection UK (CPUK), has issued "sincere apologies" for what it called the "London Bridge incident", but insisted that it had not been exploiting individuals but providing work experience.
Up to 30 jobseekers and another 50 people on apprentice wages were taken to London by coach from Bristol, Bath and Plymouth on Saturday before the pageant on Sunday as part of the government's work programme.Up to 30 jobseekers and another 50 people on apprentice wages were taken to London by coach from Bristol, Bath and Plymouth on Saturday before the pageant on Sunday as part of the government's work programme.
Two jobseekers, who did not want to be identified in case they lost their benefits, later told the Guardian that they had to camp under London Bridge overnight, to change into security gear in public, had no access to toilets for 24 hours, and were taken to a swampy campsite outside London after working a 14-hour shift in the pouring rain on the banks of the Thames on Sunday.Two jobseekers, who did not want to be identified in case they lost their benefits, later told the Guardian that they had to camp under London Bridge overnight, to change into security gear in public, had no access to toilets for 24 hours, and were taken to a swampy campsite outside London after working a 14-hour shift in the pouring rain on the banks of the Thames on Sunday.
Here is Shiv's initial story:Here is Shiv's initial story:
Sleeping under bridges, changing in public, working through the rain: the unpaid jobseekers staffing the #jubilee bit.ly/JHoKCkSleeping under bridges, changing in public, working through the rain: the unpaid jobseekers staffing the #jubilee bit.ly/JHoKCk
— Shiv Malik (@shivmalik1) June 4, 2012— Shiv Malik (@shivmalik1) June 4, 2012
2.12pm: Looks like Piers Morgan, whose exuberance caught Stewart's eye ("an orgy of excitement awaits us!"), has taken it in good spirits:2.12pm: Looks like Piers Morgan, whose exuberance caught Stewart's eye ("an orgy of excitement awaits us!"), has taken it in good spirits:
Brace yourself #JonStewart - I'm about to go live again, and I'm almost breathlessly excited. #jubileeCNNBrace yourself #JonStewart - I'm about to go live again, and I'm almost breathlessly excited. #jubileeCNN
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) June 5, 2012— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) June 5, 2012
2.10pm: The Lord Speaker makes a toast to the Queen at Westminister Hall, with the national anthem played yet again. I bet even she is getting sick of everyone banging on about God saving her all the time.2.10pm: The Lord Speaker makes a toast to the Queen at Westminister Hall, with the national anthem played yet again. I bet even she is getting sick of everyone banging on about God saving her all the time.
2.06pm: For those of you who need a little light relief from the interminable solemnity of the Beeb's coverage, this very funny Jon Stewart sketch is a must watch. Stewart congratulates CNN's coverage which came, as he puts it, "from the inside of a carwash that is England in June".2.06pm: For those of you who need a little light relief from the interminable solemnity of the Beeb's coverage, this very funny Jon Stewart sketch is a must watch. Stewart congratulates CNN's coverage which came, as he puts it, "from the inside of a carwash that is England in June".
Still, John Oliver, "Senior British Correspondent", captured the sense of British fortitude perfectly: "This is England Jon! We don't back down! Not from Nazis, not from rain, not from toast and not from !@£$^& beans! God save the Queen!".Still, John Oliver, "Senior British Correspondent", captured the sense of British fortitude perfectly: "This is England Jon! We don't back down! Not from Nazis, not from rain, not from toast and not from !@£$^& beans! God save the Queen!".
1.53pm: For your reading pleasure - and because we know you are relying on this liveblog for vital royal news AS IT HAPPENS - our roving reporter Peter Walker is leaving no jewel unturned out there. He's sent this dispatch:1.53pm: For your reading pleasure - and because we know you are relying on this liveblog for vital royal news AS IT HAPPENS - our roving reporter Peter Walker is leaving no jewel unturned out there. He's sent this dispatch:
As the Queen lunches, I've been wandering, in part to chat to people but also because everywhere I go security guards check my pass, shake their heads sadly and say, "How did you get in to this bit? You're not supposed to be here."As the Queen lunches, I've been wandering, in part to chat to people but also because everywhere I go security guards check my pass, shake their heads sadly and say, "How did you get in to this bit? You're not supposed to be here."
Even with little going on apart from marching guardsmen, the mood is cheery, not least as it's getting warmer again and there's more optimism about the flypast taking place. People are flocking to the food stalls and bars. It looks like an urban music festival and the main way you can tell it's not us that the queues for the food are far bigger than at the bars.Even with little going on apart from marching guardsmen, the mood is cheery, not least as it's getting warmer again and there's more optimism about the flypast taking place. People are flocking to the food stalls and bars. It looks like an urban music festival and the main way you can tell it's not us that the queues for the food are far bigger than at the bars.
Clutching a pint of beer and awaiting the Queen's return, wrapped in a union flag and with a gold cardboard crown on her head, was Helen Doyle from Haywards Heath in East Sussex. Even at 31, she said, she is a committed royalist.Clutching a pint of beer and awaiting the Queen's return, wrapped in a union flag and with a gold cardboard crown on her head, was Helen Doyle from Haywards Heath in East Sussex. Even at 31, she said, she is a committed royalist.
"It's partly because my mum and gran feel the same, but it's also because she's a constant in the nation. When I went to the Cabinet War Rooms I saw a note she wrote to Churchill, and it made me think: she's known so many prime ministers, she's done so much, and yet she never says what she thinks. You don't know her political views.""It's partly because my mum and gran feel the same, but it's also because she's a constant in the nation. When I went to the Cabinet War Rooms I saw a note she wrote to Churchill, and it made me think: she's known so many prime ministers, she's done so much, and yet she never says what she thinks. You don't know her political views."
"Unlike with Prince Charles," added her slightly less loyal husband, Andy."Unlike with Prince Charles," added her slightly less loyal husband, Andy.
After much negotiation with policemen, by the way, I'm finally in my designated media pen. I was supposed to be here at 8.30am, so a lucky escape.After much negotiation with policemen, by the way, I'm finally in my designated media pen. I was supposed to be here at 8.30am, so a lucky escape.
1.00pm: Interesting to hear the archbishop of Canterbury referencing the Kinks in his address – as Caroline Davies noted in her earlier tweet:1.00pm: Interesting to hear the archbishop of Canterbury referencing the Kinks in his address – as Caroline Davies noted in her earlier tweet:
Those of same generation as Queen's older children will remember 60s song "dedicated follower of fashion" says Williams. #JubileeThose of same generation as Queen's older children will remember 60s song "dedicated follower of fashion" says Williams. #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
A quick search suggests the Queen was 14 years into her reign when the band released Dedicated Follower of Fashion as a single. What other, jubilee-appropriate Kinks tracks could Rowan Williams have chosen, I wonder? Certainly not Sunny Afternoon …A quick search suggests the Queen was 14 years into her reign when the band released Dedicated Follower of Fashion as a single. What other, jubilee-appropriate Kinks tracks could Rowan Williams have chosen, I wonder? Certainly not Sunny Afternoon …
12.46pm: According to his latest tweet the indefatigable Mr Walker is now running the gauntlet of the security guards:12.46pm: According to his latest tweet the indefatigable Mr Walker is now running the gauntlet of the security guards:
I've left BBC eyrie and got a stern ticking off from security for being in wrong area. Problem us, no one knows where I should be #jubileeI've left BBC eyrie and got a stern ticking off from security for being in wrong area. Problem us, no one knows where I should be #jubilee
— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012— peterwalker99 (@peterwalker99) June 5, 2012
12.44pm: This dispatch just in from Peter Walker:12.44pm: This dispatch just in from Peter Walker:
Despite the occasional military brass band marching past playing a jaunty tune, it's all a bit subdued currently outside Buckingham Palace. It's getting a bit breezy and chilly and people are using the break to fetch coffee or, in some cases, read books. Some are huddling into outsized union flags.Despite the occasional military brass band marching past playing a jaunty tune, it's all a bit subdued currently outside Buckingham Palace. It's getting a bit breezy and chilly and people are using the break to fetch coffee or, in some cases, read books. Some are huddling into outsized union flags.
We're all awaiting the return of the royal motorcade and the events that will follow.We're all awaiting the return of the royal motorcade and the events that will follow.
12.38pm: PA are trawling the crowds outside Buckingham Palace and have managed to find a woman who's travelled all the way from Peru to be part of the jubilee celebrations:12.38pm: PA are trawling the crowds outside Buckingham Palace and have managed to find a woman who's travelled all the way from Peru to be part of the jubilee celebrations:
Anne Presland, 60, formerly of Goudhurst, Kent, said the massive public demonstrations of support since celebrations began on Saturday were proof of how adored the royal family is.Anne Presland, 60, formerly of Goudhurst, Kent, said the massive public demonstrations of support since celebrations began on Saturday were proof of how adored the royal family is.
She said: "The queue was unbelievable, the longest one I have ever stood in. I came back to see family and wanted to combine it with this. It's such a lovely day.She said: "The queue was unbelievable, the longest one I have ever stood in. I came back to see family and wanted to combine it with this. It's such a lovely day.
"I went to the Thames pageant and only really got to see the pennants on the ships and the Queen's hat - it was so stacked with people, I'm hoping for a better view today."I went to the Thames pageant and only really got to see the pennants on the ships and the Queen's hat - it was so stacked with people, I'm hoping for a better view today.
"This is very important, important that somebody who has done such a fantastic job for such a long time should be recognised and appreciated.
"It's a very British day, it's all very genuine."		"This is very important, important that somebody who has done such a fantastic job for such a long time should be recognised and appreciated.
"It's a very British day, it's all very genuine."
Mrs Presland, who moved to Peru with her teacher husband, said she thought the Queen was always popular but the nation was enjoying a feelgood factor building on last year's wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.Mrs Presland, who moved to Peru with her teacher husband, said she thought the Queen was always popular but the nation was enjoying a feelgood factor building on last year's wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
12.11pm: The outlook for this afternoon's flypast over Buckingham Palace is "touch and go", according to the Press Association, which says rain could once again ground the planes:12.11pm: The outlook for this afternoon's flypast over Buckingham Palace is "touch and go", according to the Press Association, which says rain could once again ground the planes:
Sunday's flypast over the Thames River Pageant was cancelled due to downpours, and there is a chance the same could happen today. The Ministry of Defence said it is still due to take place, but they are keeping an eye on the weather.Sunday's flypast over the Thames River Pageant was cancelled due to downpours, and there is a chance the same could happen today. The Ministry of Defence said it is still due to take place, but they are keeping an eye on the weather.
Brendan Jones, senior forecaster at Meteogroup, the weather division of PA, said organisers might "get away with it" as rain is not due to get heavy until 4pm; the flypast is scheduled for around 3.30pm.Brendan Jones, senior forecaster at Meteogroup, the weather division of PA, said organisers might "get away with it" as rain is not due to get heavy until 4pm; the flypast is scheduled for around 3.30pm.
"It still looks like there will be some light rain in the air across central London by 3.30pm but it's a very close call as to whether it will have an effect on the flypast," he said."It still looks like there will be some light rain in the air across central London by 3.30pm but it's a very close call as to whether it will have an effect on the flypast," he said.
"Given that the aircraft require good visibility, a relatively high cloud base and minimal rain, there are lots of potential constraints. However, current thoughts are that they may well just get away with it as visibility and cloud bases should not lower below safe thresholds until an hour or so later when heavier rain moves in."Given that the aircraft require good visibility, a relatively high cloud base and minimal rain, there are lots of potential constraints. However, current thoughts are that they may well just get away with it as visibility and cloud bases should not lower below safe thresholds until an hour or so later when heavier rain moves in.
"However, it will all be at the discretion of the organisers, of course."
Conditions for the flight to take place are thought to be visibility of three miles and cloud cover no lower than 4,921ft (1,500m).		"However, it will all be at the discretion of the organisers, of course."
Conditions for the flight to take place are thought to be visibility of three miles and cloud cover no lower than 4,921ft (1,500m).
12.05pm: And while we're in catch-up mode, here's another chance to enjoy the highlights of last night's concert at Buckingham Palace in case you missed it.12.05pm: And while we're in catch-up mode, here's another chance to enjoy the highlights of last night's concert at Buckingham Palace in case you missed it.
Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Madness were among the artists who performed.Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Madness were among the artists who performed.
12.02pm: This is Sam Jones, taking over from Lexy, who's off for a well-earned lunch break. It's as good a time as any now to take a look back and see how the country has changed since the silver jubilee in 1977. My colleague James Ball has been pondering things over at Comment is Free:12.02pm: This is Sam Jones, taking over from Lexy, who's off for a well-earned lunch break. It's as good a time as any now to take a look back and see how the country has changed since the silver jubilee in 1977. My colleague James Ball has been pondering things over at Comment is Free:
In among the pomp and pageantry of the diamond jubilee weekend, there have been spots of reflection on how the country has changed under the Queen's 60-year reign: are we a more prosperous society? A divided one? Are we happier now?In among the pomp and pageantry of the diamond jubilee weekend, there have been spots of reflection on how the country has changed under the Queen's 60-year reign: are we a more prosperous society? A divided one? Are we happier now?
11.51am: Peter Walker, who is in among the crowds at Buckingham Palalce, has been dashing through the corridors of power. Mostly because he is lost, it would appear.11.51am: Peter Walker, who is in among the crowds at Buckingham Palalce, has been dashing through the corridors of power. Mostly because he is lost, it would appear.
It's fair to say this isn't the most smoothly organised event. After several contradictory directions from police and stewards en route to the press seats I was sent up a long flight of stairs to a tented gantry. I was about to march in when I spotted it was the Sky news outside broadcast studio, and someone seemed to be talking into the camera. Lucky escape.It's fair to say this isn't the most smoothly organised event. After several contradictory directions from police and stewards en route to the press seats I was sent up a long flight of stairs to a tented gantry. I was about to march in when I spotted it was the Sky news outside broadcast studio, and someone seemed to be talking into the camera. Lucky escape.
After almost being sent to the royal box from last night's concert -the red carpet told me I was on the wrong track — I've ended up in the lofty BBC radio compound. They have taken pity on me and allowed me to remain, so long as I suppress any Guardian-type republican sentiments.After almost being sent to the royal box from last night's concert -the red carpet told me I was on the wrong track — I've ended up in the lofty BBC radio compound. They have taken pity on me and allowed me to remain, so long as I suppress any Guardian-type republican sentiments.
As is so common with these type of events I'm now reporting from a public occasion while utterly isolated from said public. I could always drop a paper plane to the seats below carrying my email address and ask them to send in a few quotes."As is so common with these type of events I'm now reporting from a public occasion while utterly isolated from said public. I could always drop a paper plane to the seats below carrying my email address and ask them to send in a few quotes."
11.45am: Channel 4 has done a good backgrounder on "Who Pays for the Diamond Jubilee?"11.45am: Channel 4 has done a good backgrounder on "Who Pays for the Diamond Jubilee?"
It will be a giant undertaking, but it won't cost the public a penny. All of the £10.5m budget has been raised from individual donations and corporate sponsorships, and a "substantial" surplus has been raised. It will be given to charity via the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust."It will be a giant undertaking, but it won't cost the public a penny. All of the £10.5m budget has been raised from individual donations and corporate sponsorships, and a "substantial" surplus has been raised. It will be given to charity via the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust."
But it's not quite as simple as that, of course.But it's not quite as simple as that, of course.
But the public purse is not entirely spared the cost of the event. The Greater London Authority has budgeted £2m for outside screens, road closures, signage and similar expenses. It will pick up £100,000 and pass the rest of the bill to the Department for Media, Culture and Sport. Some of the costs will be offset by revenues from commercial sponsorship.But the public purse is not entirely spared the cost of the event. The Greater London Authority has budgeted £2m for outside screens, road closures, signage and similar expenses. It will pick up £100,000 and pass the rest of the bill to the Department for Media, Culture and Sport. Some of the costs will be offset by revenues from commercial sponsorship.
The royal household has been given an extra £1m to cover the cost of administration and increased correspondence in the jubilee year. That comes from taxpayers via the sovereign Grant - and it's more than double the contribution made for the golden jubilee in 2002 (£450,000).The royal household has been given an extra £1m to cover the cost of administration and increased correspondence in the jubilee year. That comes from taxpayers via the sovereign Grant - and it's more than double the contribution made for the golden jubilee in 2002 (£450,000).
On top of those costs, the Metropolitan police will put over 6,000 officers on duty on the busiest days; 21 police boats will patrol the river. All these costs will be met from the public purse."On top of those costs, the Metropolitan police will put over 6,000 officers on duty on the busiest days; 21 police boats will patrol the river. All these costs will be met from the public purse."
11.44am: Spontaneous outburts of God Save the Queen as she enters Mansion House. Will, Harry, Charlie, Camilla and Kate now making their way to the canapes too.11.44am: Spontaneous outburts of God Save the Queen as she enters Mansion House. Will, Harry, Charlie, Camilla and Kate now making their way to the canapes too.
11.41am: So that's that. The Queen is now on her way to Mansion House for a brief reception with the City of London Corporation before she goes to a formal lunch at Westminster Hall.11.41am: So that's that. The Queen is now on her way to Mansion House for a brief reception with the City of London Corporation before she goes to a formal lunch at Westminster Hall.
11.38am: Or here are the highlights as tweeted by Caroline Davies:11.38am: Or here are the highlights as tweeted by Caroline Davies:
Williams; But "dedicated" in classical and biblical language means "being completely available to God". #JubileeWilliams; But "dedicated" in classical and biblical language means "being completely available to God". #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
Williams: Queen shown "quality of joy in happiness of others". She had made her "public" happy, says archbishop. #JubileeWilliams: Queen shown "quality of joy in happiness of others". She had made her "public" happy, says archbishop. #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
Williams says same can "manifestly be said of Prince Philip & thoughts & prayers are with him this morning ". #JubileeWilliams says same can "manifestly be said of Prince Philip & thoughts & prayers are with him this morning ". #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
Williams: "We give thanks today for Her Majesty's 60 yrs of utterly demanding yet deeply joyful service. #JubileeWilliams: "We give thanks today for Her Majesty's 60 yrs of utterly demanding yet deeply joyful service. #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
11.33am: For those who missed it first time around - do not fear! The BBC has the archbishop of Canterbury's homage to the Queen here.11.33am: For those who missed it first time around - do not fear! The BBC has the archbishop of Canterbury's homage to the Queen here.
11.32am: The thanksgiving service at St Paul's has come to a close and the procession bows in respect before the Queen, who will be accompanied by the Prince of Wales today instead of Prince Philip, who remains in hospital.11.32am: The thanksgiving service at St Paul's has come to a close and the procession bows in respect before the Queen, who will be accompanied by the Prince of Wales today instead of Prince Philip, who remains in hospital.
11.31am: We have some more information about the Queen's diamond jubilee message which will be broadcast later this evening.11.31am: We have some more information about the Queen's diamond jubilee message which will be broadcast later this evening.
The queen's press secretary has issed the following statement:The queen's press secretary has issed the following statement:
The Queen will make a special broadcast of thanks following this weekend's diamond jubilee celebrations.The Queen will make a special broadcast of thanks following this weekend's diamond jubilee celebrations.
The message was recorded in the presence room in Buckingham Palace yesterday evening, prior to the jubilee concert. It has been produced by ITN.The message was recorded in the presence room in Buckingham Palace yesterday evening, prior to the jubilee concert. It has been produced by ITN.
The broadcast, lasting just over two minutes, will be transmitted on television and radio at 6pm today in the UK and across the Commonwealth. It will also be available on the Royal Channel on YouTube.The broadcast, lasting just over two minutes, will be transmitted on television and radio at 6pm today in the UK and across the Commonwealth. It will also be available on the Royal Channel on YouTube.
11.27am: Rousing rendition of God Save the Queen - bit of a predictable set list so far really.11.27am: Rousing rendition of God Save the Queen - bit of a predictable set list so far really.
11.06am: Oh dear, poor girl from the St John's ambulance lost her spot. Got it back though, that's the spirit.11.06am: Oh dear, poor girl from the St John's ambulance lost her spot. Got it back though, that's the spirit.
11.02am:The archbishop pays homage to the Queen's "utterly demanding, but deeply joyful service" over the past 60 years.11.02am:The archbishop pays homage to the Queen's "utterly demanding, but deeply joyful service" over the past 60 years.
10.59am: The archbishop reflects on the Queen's dedication to her role over 60 years.10.59am: The archbishop reflects on the Queen's dedication to her role over 60 years.
"Six decades of living proof that public service is possible and it is a place where happiness can be found."
"Six decades of living proof that public service is possible and it is a place where happiness can be found."
10.53am: The archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, reminds us of the "simple statement of committment" that the Queen made to her subjects following the death of her father. "She dedicated herself to them," he said.10.53am: The archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, reminds us of the "simple statement of committment" that the Queen made to her subjects following the death of her father. "She dedicated herself to them," he said.
Yet to source the designer for his outfit, but bear with me.Yet to source the designer for his outfit, but bear with me.
10.49am: The prime minister, David Cameron, reads the New Testament lesson. St Paul's really does look spectacular.10.49am: The prime minister, David Cameron, reads the New Testament lesson. St Paul's really does look spectacular.
10.46am: My colleague Caroline Davies is in St Paul's Cathedral and has some details on what the Queen is wearing10.46am: My colleague Caroline Davies is in St Paul's Cathedral and has some details on what the Queen is wearing
Queen is in mint green Angela Kelly with chiffon drape decorated with Swarovski crystals #JubileeQueen is in mint green Angela Kelly with chiffon drape decorated with Swarovski crystals #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
While Kate is once again rocking an excellent Alexander McQueen dress.While Kate is once again rocking an excellent Alexander McQueen dress.
For anyone interested Duchess of Cambridge in Alexander McQueen (again) with. Jane Taylor hat #JubileeFor anyone interested Duchess of Cambridge in Alexander McQueen (again) with. Jane Taylor hat #Jubilee
— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012— caroline davies (@ccdavies) June 5, 2012
10.41am: Twittersphere preoccupied with Samantha Cameron's choice of headgear. Avid SamCam watchers among us will remember that the PM's wife did not wear a hat to the royal wedding, a decision she has reversed today, wearing a dark hat with a black and grey lace detail frock.10.41am: Twittersphere preoccupied with Samantha Cameron's choice of headgear. Avid SamCam watchers among us will remember that the PM's wife did not wear a hat to the royal wedding, a decision she has reversed today, wearing a dark hat with a black and grey lace detail frock.
Here's some observations on the get-upHere's some observations on the get-up
Samantha Cameron has a pillow on her head.Samantha Cameron has a pillow on her head.
— Liza Radley (@WeirdSid) June 5, 2012— Liza Radley (@WeirdSid) June 5, 2012
why is Samantha Cameron wearing black ... it's a happy event not a funeral #diamondjubileewhy is Samantha Cameron wearing black ... it's a happy event not a funeral #diamondjubilee
— MeMyselfandUs (@Boof_Ed) June 5, 2012— MeMyselfandUs (@Boof_Ed) June 5, 2012
Samantha Cameron really does look like a dinnerlady with that hat on. #bbcjubileeSamantha Cameron really does look like a dinnerlady with that hat on. #bbcjubilee
— ♡ carmen grey ♡ (@earc0nd0m) June 5, 2012— ♡ carmen grey ♡ (@earc0nd0m) June 5, 2012
Ok, enough of that. Back to the service.Ok, enough of that. Back to the service.
10.38am: St Paul's Cathedral has just tweeted - I didn't know such vast structures had opposible thumbs, but there you go - telling us who is entering the cathedral.10.38am: St Paul's Cathedral has just tweeted - I didn't know such vast structures had opposible thumbs, but there you go - telling us who is entering the cathedral.
Prince Charles. The Duchess of Cornwall. Prince Harry. The Duke of Cambridge and the Duchess of Cambridge enter St Paul'sCathedralPrince Charles. The Duchess of Cornwall. Prince Harry. The Duke of Cambridge and the Duchess of Cambridge enter St Paul'sCathedral
— St Paul's Cathedral (@StPaulsLondon) June 5, 2012— St Paul's Cathedral (@StPaulsLondon) June 5, 2012
10.35am: Peter has just seen the Queen! The real Queen! Making her way to St Paul's for the service of thanksgiving.10.35am: Peter has just seen the Queen! The real Queen! Making her way to St Paul's for the service of thanksgiving.
We just had the briefest glimpse of the Queen's motorcade as it swept out of the palace with little warning.We just had the briefest glimpse of the Queen's motorcade as it swept out of the palace with little warning.
There were some muted cheers but they were completely drowned out by the sound of bells played at ear-splitting volume over the PA system still in place from last night's concert.There were some muted cheers but they were completely drowned out by the sound of bells played at ear-splitting volume over the PA system still in place from last night's concert.
Nonetheless, OK!-branded flags were waved dutifully before people turned back to the giant TV screens. No sign of the "Long live the Queen!" chants we can hear on the TV feed being copied here. The main event for us comes when she returns later.Nonetheless, OK!-branded flags were waved dutifully before people turned back to the giant TV screens. No sign of the "Long live the Queen!" chants we can hear on the TV feed being copied here. The main event for us comes when she returns later.
10.29am: I know that you really don't want to miss a second of today's action - so we have our roving reporter Peter Walker outside Buckingham Palace, soaking up the atmosphere. He's sent this:10.29am: I know that you really don't want to miss a second of today's action - so we have our roving reporter Peter Walker outside Buckingham Palace, soaking up the atmosphere. He's sent this:
I've spent a while mingling with the arriving throngs outside Buckingham Palace, from where the royal procession is due to leave soon-ish. Everyone seems very cheery, not least because, for once this Jubilee weekend, it's relatively mild and almost sunny. The fact everyone has pre-allocated seats or standing positions certainly lessens the sense of near panic you could feel as people crushed to see the river pageant on Sunday.
Some lucky spectators are sitting on rugs on a patch if grass just to the left of the main gates. Among them were Junaid Tamimu and his wife, Alina, who despite originally being from Ghana and Poland respectively were as excited as anyone.		I've spent a while mingling with the arriving throngs outside Buckingham Palace, from where the royal procession is due to leave soon-ish. Everyone seems very cheery, not least because, for once this Jubilee weekend, it's relatively mild and almost sunny. The fact everyone has pre-allocated seats or standing positions certainly lessens the sense of near panic you could feel as people crushed to see the river pageant on Sunday.
Some lucky spectators are sitting on rugs on a patch if grass just to the left of the main gates. Among them were Junaid Tamimu and his wife, Alina, who despite originally being from Ghana and Poland respectively were as excited as anyone.
"We didn't have to get up till 6 but I couldn't sleep, I was awake at 5, said Alina. "What I'm looking forwards to most is seeing the Queen, and the golden carriage — even though we've already seen it at the palace museum."
The monarch, Junaid said, is "a unifying force, not just for the UK but internationally, especially in the Commonwealth".		"We didn't have to get up till 6 but I couldn't sleep, I was awake at 5, said Alina. "What I'm looking forwards to most is seeing the Queen, and the golden carriage — even though we've already seen it at the palace museum."
The monarch, Junaid said, is "a unifying force, not just for the UK but internationally, especially in the Commonwealth".
The couple had just one regret: those under 13 cannot attend, meaning their children, aged 12, 10 and eight, are being looked after at home in Peckham, south London.The couple had just one regret: those under 13 cannot attend, meaning their children, aged 12, 10 and eight, are being looked after at home in Peckham, south London.
"I've just talked to then on the phone," Alina said. They're very jealous.""I've just talked to then on the phone," Alina said. They're very jealous."
Hello royalists and republicans alike and welcome to the Guardian's diamond jubilee live blog. We'll be following the main event of the final day of celebrations, including a royal carriage procession, a service of thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral and – weather permitting – a flypast by the RAF. Tally ho!Hello royalists and republicans alike and welcome to the Guardian's diamond jubilee live blog. We'll be following the main event of the final day of celebrations, including a royal carriage procession, a service of thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral and – weather permitting – a flypast by the RAF. Tally ho!