royal visit

The monarch will hold separate meetings with Secretary of State Theresa Villiers, First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness at Hillsborough Castle this evening.

Tomorrow the Queen and Duke will head to the north coast for a series of public engagements.

They will tour the Giant’s Causeway and also visit Bushmills, where they will unveil a statue to local VC winner Robert Quigg.

The Co Antrim born soldier was awarded the highest military honour for bravery shown during the Battle of the Somme.

The Royal couple will later attend a reception at Royal Portrush Golf Club.

The Queen and Duke will also take a steam train journey to the newly-opened Bellarena station on the historic Coleraine to Londonderry line.