Huge crowds have gathered outside Buckingham Palace to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the British throne.

Celebrations for the Platinum Jubilee began on Thursday, with a large number of military personnel marching outside Buckingham Palace in London.

The Queen appeared on the balcony of the palace and received a salute from guards. She also waved to cheering crowds.

The Queen was then joined by other members of the royal family, including her son Prince Charles and her grandson Prince William, to watch a fly-past by the Royal Air Force.

The 96-year-old has recently cut back on official duties, stirring concerns about her health. Her husband died last year.

The celebrations will continue through Sunday. A service to express gratitude for the Queen's reign is scheduled for Friday at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Many other events, including parties, will be staged across the country.