Queen Elizabeth shares moving message and a beautiful new portrait to mark her Platinum Jubilee

In celebration of 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II has released a beautiful new portrait of herself.

The specially commissioned photo was shared to mark the beginning of her Platinum Jubilee.

Taken by Ranald Mackechnie, the portrait was snapped in the Victoria Vestibule at Windsor Castle on May 25.

The castle's Round Tower and the statue of King Charles II in the Quadrangle can be seen in the background.

Unlike her past three Jubilee portraits, the Queen has gone for an understated look in a powder blue coat dress and a string of pearls, with the engagement ring given to her by her late husband Prince Philip clearly visible on her finger.

The Queen also released a personal message ahead of the celebrations.

"Thank you to everyone who has been involved in convening communities, families, neighbours and friends to mark my Platinum Jubilee, in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth. I know that many happy memories will be created at these festive occasions," she said.

"I continue to be inspired by the goodwill shown to me, and hope that the coming days will provide an opportunity to reflect on all that has been achieved during the last seventy years, as we look to the future with confidence and enthusiasm," she concluded, signing off the message Elizabeth R.

Platinum Jubilee will see four days of celebrations take place across the country, which kicks off tomorrow with a special Trooping the Colour parade and a flypast featuring 70 aircraft including the Red Arrows.

The festivities also include a service at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday and a concert outside Buckingham Palace on Saturday.