The Queen has released a message to the nation praising the community spirit of the British people and reassuring the public that the Royal family will 'play their part'.

It came as she and her husband the Duke of Edinburgh travelled from Buckingham Palace to Windsor, where they are expected to remain until after Easter.

The message read:

"As Philip and I arrive at Windsor today, we know that many individuals and families across the United Kingdom, and around the world, are entering a period of great concern and uncertainty.

"We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in and, in particular, to protect the most vulnerable within them. 

She continued by praising the spirit of the nation in the face of adversities, adding: "At times such as these, I am reminded that our nation’s history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one, concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal."

The Queen also thanked those working to treat the spread of the virus.

"We are enormously thankful for the expertise and commitment of our scientists, medical practitioners and emergency and public services; but now more than any time in our recent past, we all have a vitally important part to play as individuals - today and in the coming days, weeks and months."

She concluded by saying the Royal family are prepared to stand in solidarity with the nation to help fight the pandemic.

"Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe. I am certain we are up to that challenge. You can be assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part," she finished.