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QUEEN PUTS ON THE RITZ AT LAVISH BIRTHDAY BASH

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6 DECEMBER 2006

Britain's head of state was back to her old self as she played host to friends and loved ones at a lavish party in the Ritz this week. The monarch, who was recently forced to cancel a series of engagements after suffering a back injury, seemed fully recovered as she took to the dance floor at a glitzy soiree to mark her 80th birthday.

Recent concerns about her health appeared to be a distant memory as she arrived with her husband Prince Philip. Looking radiant in a floor-length violet gown, the sovereign was clearly enjoying the opportunity to get out and enjoy a night of revelry with her nearest and dearest.

Among the guests helping the monarch celebrate her milestone year were granddaughters Beatrice, who was turning heads in a striking printed gown, and Eugenie. The two teenagers' father Prince Andrew was also present, along with the Earl and Countess of Wessex and Lady Helen Taylor, characteristically chic in a strapless silver number.

Altogether more than 300 people attended the opulent soiree, which was hosted in five reception rooms at the exclusive hotel and included a five-course meal. And by staying until the small hours of the morning, the Queen firmly extinguished any remaining doubts about her return to form.