Diamond Jubilee 2012: Scots have strong affection for Queen, says Salmond

He spoke as he prepared to attend today’s thanksgiving service at London’s St Paul’s Cathedral.

He said: “We have had the opportunity this weekend for the people of Scotland to mark this wonderful occasion and it is clear that the Scots’ affection for the Queen continues to be very loyal and strong.

“I am honoured to be attending the service of thanksgiving in St Paul’s Cathedral in London and will be equally honoured when Scotland marks this tremendous reign of 60 years with thanksgiving services in both Glasgow and Edinburgh during royal week in July and the magnificent specially themed Jubilee Tattoo in August.”

The weekend brought a string of events to mark the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation, including several street parties, other local community activities and a 21-gun royal salute.

Last night, dozens of the 4,200 beacons being lit across the globe in the Queen’s honour were due to be set alight in Scotland.

While not everyone in the capital was on holiday, and the schools remained open, there was still something of a holiday atmosphere in the city.Tourists and locals crowded into the capital’s main shopping area, Princes Street, while various premises along the Royal Mile – and the Palace of Holyroodhouse itself – kept their bunting on display.

Jubilee fever even struck the chimpanzees at Edinburgh Zoo, where they were given specially themed jubilee snacks.

Alison Bates, Primate Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We always look for new ways of enriching our animals’ lives, especially at feeding time. So for the Jubilee we decided to make union jack and crown inspired food sacks filled with a mixture of hay and lots of their fruity favourites!”