Protect and Keep

A unique pictorial record of Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation. In June 1953, the new, youthful Queen Elizabeth II made her way down the aisle of Westminster Abbey to solemnly promise to the nation her lifelong service and devotion. These vows would come to define her long life, and the Coronation itself was met with much excitement from a still war-weary public eager to celebrate. As the event was famously the first of its kind to be televised, images from the ceremony inside Westminster Abbey are instantly recognisable and have become iconic. Far less familiar are the scenes in the streets outside, where huge crowds assembled to see a procession of state coaches and historic regiments marching past public buildings festooned with patriotic banners and colourful grandstands erected outside many famous landmarks. At the core of the book is a hitherto private collection of more than 200 images showing London's West End on the day. Together, they provide a unique and precious record of this historic occasion - a royal celebration the likes of which will never be seen again. 180 colour illustrations