Beacons light up Jubilee sky

Spectacular fireworks filled the skies over Buckingham Palace at the end of a Diamond Jubilee concert – as huge crowds flocked to see beacons being lit at landmarks across Shropshire and Mid Wales.

The Queen lit the last of more than 4,200 beacons across the globe from the stage of the concert late last night.

Click on the image to the right for more photos

A six-metre high flame on The Mall burst into life when she placed a crystal glass shard into a special pod, sparking deafening cheers.

In Shropshire, more than 1,000 people climbed The Wrekin to see its beacon lit just after 10pm, followed by fireworks and cheers.

Teaching assistant Jo McCarthy, from Wellington, said: "It's been an amazing occasion and a wonderful end to the weekend."

Up to 2,000 people in Ellesmere saw its pyre set alight alongside a ceremonial crown, which also became engulfed in flame, and another dazzling display of fireworks.

A big crowd also gathered on the Long Mynd waving flags and cheering as a beacon was lit.

The atmosphere in London was dampened by the news that the Duke of Edinburgh was being treated for a bladder infection. Prince Philip, 90, will be under observation for a few days and will miss today's celebrations, including thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral, a procession from Westminster Hall and an RAF fly-past.

The Prince of Wales spoke of his father's illness during an emotional tribute to his parents at the culmination of last night's concert.

He drew a massive cheer from 20,000 at the concert and 250,000 along The Mall when he asked them to shout loud enough so the Duke would hear them in his bed at the King Edward VII Hospital. He then told the Queen: "As a nation this is our opportunity to thank you and my father for always being there for us."

Moments later, the Queen lit the final beacon, triggering one of the most spectacular firework displays ever seen in the capital.

Earlier, the crowd was treated to more than three hours of music from stars including Sir Elton John, Sir Tom Jones, Dame Shirley Bassey, Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams.

Paul Spencer, 42, an electrician from Shropshire, was in The Mall with sons, Daniel, five, and Jamie. He said: "They probably won't see this again in their lifetime."