Queen Mother's birthday celebrations pass without trouble

Fears that terrorists would use the Queen Mother's birthday celebrations as a vehicle for violence proved groundless today as the event passed without trouble.

Fears that terrorists would use the Queen Mother's birthday celebrations as a vehicle for violence proved groundless today as the event passed without trouble.

Up to 40,000 people lined the Mall and gathered outside Buckingham Palace as she took a 100th birthday salute and received a birthday card from her daughter - which was opened by a courtier using an unwieldy sword.

Later she waved with her family from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

The Queen, Princess Margaret, the Queen Mother's grandchildren and great grandchildren all joined her on the balcony as a band played happy birthday and the crowd shouted three cheers.

She stayed for several minutes, waving to the well-wishers before returning to the palace.

The police presence was heavy and visible following fears that renegade republican terrorists might disrupt the day, but most well-wishers were oblivious to the security arrangements as they strained for a glimpse of the royal carriage.