Britain celebrates queen's 83rd birthday

LONDON, June 13 (UPI) -- Thousands of people gathered Saturday in London to offer their best wishes to Queen Elizabeth II during the official celebration of her 83rd birthday.

The Daily Telegraph said London residents gathered in the streets Saturday to catch a glimpse of the queen during the Horse Guards Parade, which takes place every June to celebrate the birthday of the reigning British sovereign.

Also on hand for the celebration were Elizabeth's grandsons, Prince William and Prince Harry, along with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and Charles, Prince of Wales.

Queen Elizabeth II was first honored with the Trooping the Color parade in 1951 and only a rail strike in 1955 has hindered her from receiving the royal honor in every year since, the Telegraph said.

The newspaper said the event to honor the reigning sovereign is based on historic traditions during battle preparations. Elizabeth's actual birthday is April 21.