The Queen will highlight 'the attributes of self-discipline' and  'good-humoured resolve' demonstrated by the British people during the coronavirus outbreak, as she makes a special address on Sunday.

In a rare such speech, the 93-year-old monarch will thank NHS staff and key workers for the role they are playing, but also highlight the importance of the reaction of the British people.

She will say: "I hope in the years to come everyone will be able to take pride in how they responded to this challenge.

"And those who come after us will say that the Britons of this generation were as strong as any. That the attributes of self-discipline, of quiet good-humoured resolve and of fellow-feeling still characterise this country."

In the televised broadcast, recorded under unusual circumstances at Windsor Castle by a single cameraman dressed in protective clothing, the Queen acknowledges the everyday hardships faced by people across the UK.

She is expected to say: "I am speaking to you at what I know is an increasingly challenging time.

"A time of disruption in the life of our country: a disruption that has brought grief to some, financial difficulties to many, and enormous changes to the daily lives of us all."

Details of the speech - expected to be watched by tens of millions - emerged as the UK death toll rose by 708, the highest daily increase so far, to 4,313. 

The Queen's address will be broadcast on TV, radio and social media at 20:00 BST.