The Queen speaks of “a time of disruption in the life of our country” as she addresses the UK in a rare televised speech.
In a message recorded at Windsor Castle, she says it is an “increasingly challenging time” for the nation – bringing grief, financial hardships and “enormous changes”.
The Queen continues her message by thanking everyone “on the NHS front line” – as well as care workers and other key workers – “who selflessly continue their day-to-day duties outside the home in support of us all”.
“I am sure the nation will join me in assuring you that what you do is appreciated and every hour of your hard work brings us closer to a return to more normal times,” she says.