The Queen arrives at Hatfield House

THE Queen has arrived at Hatfield House – to a crowd of thousands of flag waving well-wishers.

Her Majesty arrived just after noon, and was greeted by Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire and Lord Salisbury, owner of Hatfield House.

Dressed in purple, the Queen then met delegates from Welwyn Hatfield Council and Hatfield Town Council, before planting a special Diamond Jubilee tree in Hatfield Park.

She was serenaded by a choir, and treated to a steel drum recital courtesy of Hatfield Steelers.

She was then presented with flowers by students from three different primary schools from Times Territory – St Philip Howard in Hatfield, Essendon and St Mary’s in Welham Green.

Reporter Paul Christian, who is at Hatfield House, said it was “close to frenzy” when the Queen first stepped out of her car.

“There was screaming, flag-waving, much excitement.

“The Queen herself seemed very happy to be here. Our photographer even overheard her say what a lovely tree she was about to plant.”

Her Majesty has now entered Hatfield House, which is flying the Royal Standard to mark her presence.