The Queen and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, are celebrating the holiday separately from their family this year at Windsor Castle.
Queen Elizabeth II, 94, addressed the nation with a traditional Christmas speech. The video footage on Friday, December 25, was published by the BBC TV channel.
“For many, this time of year will be sad; some mourn the loss of loved ones, while others miss friends and family members isolated for safety, and all they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or handshake,” said Elizabeth II.
The Queen of Britain expressed her hope for the future. At the same time, she admitted that millions of Britons will not be able to spend ordinary family holidays this year.
“If you are among them, you are not alone. It is noteworthy that the year, which inevitably divided people, brought us closer together in many ways,” she added.
The 94-year-old Queen said this year her family was inspired by stories of people from different parts of the United Kingdom helping those in need of help by volunteering.
“In the United Kingdom and around the world, people have handled the challenges of the year very well, and I am so proud and touched by this quiet, unbreakable spirit,” she added.
The Queen concluded her speech with words of support: “Know that you are not alone, and let me assure you that my thoughts and prayers are with you now.”
As the BBC emphasizes, during the entire speech, she never once uttered the words “pandemic”, “coronavirus” or “COVID-19”, but indirectly repeatedly mentioned them. And the final part of the address was filled with touching phrases, which are not typical for the Queen’s public speeches.
The queen herself has been forced to abandon the traditional Christmas holidays with her family and spends the holiday season at Windsor Castle with her 99-year-old husband, Prince Philip.
At the same time, despite being in the same residence, Elizabeth II and Prince Philip will not visit each other due to coronavirus restrictions. Also, the queen did not attend the Christmas church service this year. A festive mass was celebrated for her at the residence.
