Queen's Sweet Nod To Prince Philip In Birthday Portrait

Queen Elizabeth has paid a subtle tribute to her late husband Prince Philip as she marks her 96th birthday.

A new photo of the monarch stood beside her two Fell ponies was released this week as part of her birthday celebrations.

The photo was originally taken back in March by photographer Henry Dallal on the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Henry Dallal/PA)

Sharing the photo with the public, The Royal Family account tweeted: "Ahead of The Queen’s 96th Birthday tomorrow, @windsorhorse have released a new photograph of Her Majesty.

"Taken last month in the grounds of Windsor Castle, The Queen is pictured with two of her fell ponies, Bybeck Katie and Bybeck Nightingale. Happy Birthday Your Majesty!"

Her two ponies Bybeck Katie and Bybeck Nightingale will appear in the upcoming Royal Windsor Horse Show.

In the photo, the Queen wears a pair of black shoes and a long dark green coat, paying tribute to her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

The shade of green, known as 'Edinburgh Green' was Prince Philip's 'official' colour over the years.

Alamy)

The Royal website reads: "The Duke of Edinburgh's official livery colour is dark green, known as 'Edinburgh Green.'

"It has been used for staff liveries - the Duke of Edinburgh's page at the Coronation wore dark green and silver - and private cars."

The Queen made a similar reference to her husband at Prince Philip's memorial service in March, along with Princess Anne, and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall.

All three women dressed in dark green to honour the Duke of Edinburgh at his special service in Westminster Abbey, which was held almost one year after his death.

Alamy)

The Duke of Edinburgh sadly passed away on 9th April 2021, at Windsor Castle at the age of 99.

Queen Elizabeth will celebrate her birthday today at her Norfolk estate, where the Duke of Edinburgh resided for much of his retirement.