Queen Elizabeth II has spoken of light and hope during a powerful Christmas Day address.
Her Majesty delivered the annual speech from Buckingham Palace, using the opportunity to address the masses who have been effected by the Covid-19 pandemic this year.
"Every year, we herald the coming of Christmas by turning on the lights and light does more than create a festive mood - light brings hope," the Queen said.
The Queen acknowledged people of all faiths were unable to celebrate their religious holidays this year in the usual way due to restrictions currently in place in the UK but added, "we need life to go on".
"Remarkably, in a year that has necessarily kept people apart has in many ways brought us closer together."
She said she and her family were inspired by those helping in the community and rising to the challenges of 2020, saying she was proud and moved by the "indomitable spirit" displayed.
Her Majesty then paid tribute in particular to the healthcare workers on the frontlines providing hope.
To finish her speech, the Queen acknowledged some would be feeling sadness while mourning the loss of a loved one or simply wanting to see their friends.
"All they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand," she said.
"If you are among them, you are not alone and let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers.
"Let the light of Christmas, the spirit of selflessness, love, and above all hope, guide us in the times ahead.”
The coronavirus pandemic meant the Queen and her family weren’t able to go to church, one of their Christmas Day traditions.
Though living a far more solitary existence, over the past few months, the queen has been a visible presence, most notably in her two televised addresses to the nation from Windsor Castle in April and May, which were partly intended to bolster people’s resolve in the face of the lockdown.
Members of the royal family are spending the festive period at their respective residences this year instead of gathering at Sandringham.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
SHARE ME