Coronavirus: Queen issues statement as she arrives at Windsor

'I am reminded that our nation’s history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one, concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal...'

The Queen has issued a statement on the ongoing coronavirus outbreak in the UK as she arrives at Windsor for a period of isolation with Prince Philip.

The monarch said: "As Philip and I arrive at Windsor today, we know that many individuals and families across the United Kingdom, and around the world, are entering a period of great concern and uncertainty.

"We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in, and, in particular, to protect the most vulnerable within them."

The statement, which was issued by the royal household on Thursday afternoon, continued: "At times such as these, I am reminded that our nation’s history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one, concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal.

"We are enormously thankful for the expertise and commitment of our scientists, medical practitioners and emergency and public services; but now more than any time in our recent past, we all have a vitally important part to play as individuals - today and in the coming days, weeks and months.

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"Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe. I am certain we are up to that challenge. You can assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reposted the message on their official Royal Sussex Instagram account.

Earlier this week Buckingham Palace confirmed the Queen would be moving to Windsor castle earlier than planned due to the ongoing outbreak. She is expected to remain there until after the Easter holiday.

The Queen, who is understood to be in good health, will have a reduced number of staff and will be following appropriate advice from her medical household and the government.

Other members of the royal family have also had to make amendments to upcoming plans: on Wednesday it was announced Princess Beatrice and her fiance Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi have cancelled their wedding reception.

The event was due to go ahead on 29 May.

A statement, issued on behalf of the couple, said: "They are particularly conscious of government advice in relation to both the wellbeing of older family members and large gatherings of people."