The Queen Mother: TV and Radio reports

The Queen Mother saw and took part in some momentous events during her long life. In particular, the abdication of Edward VIII and World War II. She set an example of dedication which won the respect and admiration of the nation. BBC News Online looks back over her lifetime of service.

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The Queen Mother arriving at hospital to receive treatment for anaemia

Health

Concern over the Queen Mother's health intensified in August when she was admitted to hospital for treatment for anaemia. She was also unwell over Christmas when she developed a chill. But she seemed to recover and was able to attend the funeral of her younger daughter, Princess Margaret, in February.

 The BBC's Jennie Bond reports on the Queen Mother's recent health problems

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Waving from the balcony on VE Day 1995

VE Day

Many remember the Queen Mother's appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace on the 50th anniversary of VE Day when she joined the thousands gathered to pay tribute to those who fought for peace in Europe. She played a vital role in the war years, visiting bomb sites and attending parades to rally spirits and keep morale high.

 The BBC's Jennie Bond recalls the events of summer 1995

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Prince Charles is "devastated" by the news

Prince Charles

The Queen Mother had a warm and affectionate relationship with all her family. But it was apparently with Prince Charles that she enjoyed the closest link.

 The BBC's Jennie Bond reports on the close link between Prince Charles and his grandmother

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The Queen Mother studies the race card at Cheltenham

Racing

Over the years, no major race meeting would seem complete without the familiar figure of the Queen Mother keeping a keen eye on events. Her passion for National Hunt racing began when she bought her first steeple-chaser just after the war and she went on to own more than 400 winners.

 The BBC's Clare Balding reports

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A favourite hideaway of the Queen Mother

The Castle of Mey

The Queen Mother travelled to Scotland every August to her Castle in Caithness. The Castle of Mey first caught her eye back in the 1950s and she found that its charm never faded.

 The BBC's Jennie Bond recently went to see the castle and talked to some of the staff

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Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's family had strong Scottish roots

Scotland

Scotland held a special place in the heart of the Queen Mother. She spent a great deal of her childhood there and loved to holiday at Balmoral. It was a long association which led to the familiar use of the title "The Scottish Queen".

 The BBC's Colin Blane reports on the Queen Mother's love of Scotland

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