Churches at the centre of national celebration of HM The Queen’s 90th Birthday

Churches across the country are marking the 90th Birthday of their Supreme Governor, HM The Queen, with celebrations across the country. Today, St Paul's Cathedral holds the National Service of Thanksgiving. Over the weekend cathedrals from the Isle of Man to Portsmouth will hold services and ancient bells will ring out across cities. Rural and town churches from Cornwall to Northumberland will hold special community events from church tower teddy bear parachutes to hog roasts in church gardens.

The Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge said: "Her Majesty The Queen is a most wonderful example of a life completely devoted to Christian service. The Church, this nation, the Commonwealth and the world have benefitted immeasurably from all she has given during her long reign. We give heartfelt thanks for her and pray for her continued health and happiness. Long live the Queen!"

Sir Tony Baldry, Chair of the Church Buildings Council, said: 'Church buildings are at the heart of our villages, towns and cities. I am delighted that so many churches have flung open their doors and hope that this will be a spur to future community outreach. The Church of England has 16,000 church buildings and so the opportunity is there for every city, town and village to use their churches to celebrate both national and local milestones.'

Church of England churches across Europe from Helsinki to Toulouse have also held special services to mark The Queen's birthday.