It has been announced that Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving monarch in British history, is under medical supervision.

The news emerged on Thursday (September 8) lunchtime, with doctors said to be concerned for Her Majesty's health.

Hitchin marked the 70th anniversary of The Queen's reign in June, with hundreds of people gathering in Market Place to experience the celebrations, with many singing 'God Save The Queen', 'Jerusalem' and 'Land of Hope and Glory'.

Aged 96, the Queen represents stability and continuity for the United Kingdom, from the early 1950s to the 21st century. Many in Hitchin were also present the day the monarch visited market square during the wonderful summer of 2012.

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"Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen's doctors are concerned for Her Majesty's health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision," Buckingham Palace said. "The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral."

Earlier this week Queen Elizabeth II presided over the transition of power from Boris Johnson to Liz Truss at Balmoral, her Scottish highland castle.

The monarch has been suffering from 'mobility issues' for many months.

"The whole country will be deeply concerned by the news from Buckingham Palace this lunchtime," Liz Truss, the prime minister wrote on Twitter, adding. "My thoughts — and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom — are with Her Majesty the Queen and her family at this time."

Opposition leader Keir Starmer also commented, saying "Along with the rest of the country, I am deeply worried by the news from Buckingham Palace this afternoon.

"My thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time, and I join everyone across the United Kingdom in hoping for her recovery."

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