New portrait of the Queen released as weekend of birthday celebrations begins

A new portrait of the Queen with the Duke of Edinburgh has been released as a weekend of celebrations for the monarch's birthday begins.

Wearing matching pale pink, the couple, who have been married for more than 68 years, sit side by side as they smile for the camera.

The picture is released on the day the Duke celebrates his 95th birthday, and a day ahead of the Queen's official 90th birthday.

It is the sixth and final picture in a series of portraits taken by photographer Annie Leibovitz to mark the Queen's birthday milestone.

Others included the Queen in separate images with her beloved corgis and the royal children.

In the latest image the Queen wears a pale pink cardigan with gold buttons over a pink and white striped blouse, while the Duke wears a pink shirt under a light brown jacket with a matching pink pocket square.

The picture was taken at Windsor Castle after Easter.

Speaking previously about the images, Ms Leibovitz said the photoshoots were all inspired by the Queen's own ideas.

The renowned photographer said: "She wanted to be photographed with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her husband, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh; her daughter, Anne, the Princess Royal; and her corgis."

In the first of three days of celebrations for the Queen, a service of thanksgiving will take place at St Paul's Cathedral on Friday, followed by the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Saturday, and a street party in The Mall on Sunday.