Looking back over 2017, the Queen reflected fondly on her relationship with Prince Philip amid his decision to “slow down a little”.

She said: “I don’t know that anyone had invented the term ‘platinum’ for a 70th wedding anniversary when I was born. You weren’t expected to be around that long.”

This summer Prince Philip retired from his programme of public engagements, although he has continued to attend some events involving the Queen.

In the broadcast, the Queen also praised her husband’s “unique sense of humour”.