London - British Queen Elizabeth II has sent her gratitude to the public and highlighted "togetherness" in a message released early on Monday for the Diamond Jubilee.
"Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee," the Queen wrote.
The Accession Day of February 6 marks 60 years of the Queen's accession to the throne, and the anniversary of her father George VI's death.
"In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign and which my family and I look forward to seeing in many forms as we travel throughout the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth," she said.
The Queen also called on people to "look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart" while joining together in celebrations.
British Prime Minister David Cameron praised the "magnificent service" given by the Queen and her "experience, dignity and quiet authority".
Cameron, the 13th prime minister serving under the Queen, called her a "source of wisdom and continuity".
"All my life, and for the lives of most people in this country, she has always been there for us. Today, and this year, in the 60th anniversary of her reign, we have the chance to say thank you," he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said in a statement that the Queen had been a "centre of calm and stability" in Britain and paid tribute to her "immense kindness and warmth".
The Queen, 85, plans to visit King's Lynn Town Hall and Dersingham Infant and Nursery School later on Monday.
Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip are scheduled to travel across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland from March 29 to July 19 to mark the Diamond Jubilee.
Other members of the royal family will travel overseas representing the Queen throughout the year, visiting 15 other countries where the Queen is head of state, as well as some other Commonwealth countries.
The Diamond Jubilee central weekend is June 2-5 and will consist of several public events.
