The Queen is set to enter the milestone 70th year of her reign, as she prepares to mark the anniversary of her accession away from Sandringham for the first time in more than 30 years. Elizabeth II the nation's longest reigning monarch will reach 69 years on the throne on February 6, meaning she is just one year away from her Platinum Jubilee
Here is a selection of pictures of the monarch over the decades, as she reaches the anniversary of her accession
13. Through the years
Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh return to Buckingham Palace by carriage following the Trooping the Colour ceremony at Horse Guards Parade. 12/06/10 Photo: Dominic Lipinski
14. Through the years
Queen Elizabeth II being greeted by a huge crowd on a sports field at Butterley Hall, near Chesterfield, during her Silver Jubilee tour of Great Britain. 28/07/77 Photo: Ron Bell
15. Through the years
Queen Elizabeth II meeting guests at a banquet given by Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg. 11/11/76 Photo: Ron Bell
16. Through the years
(left to right) Peter Phillips,the Princess Royal, the Earl of Wessex, the Prince of Wales, Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of York and the Duke of Edinburgh at Balmoral Castle.20/11/79 Photo: Ron Bell