New photo of the Queen released ahead of her funeral

The Royal Family has released a new picture of the Queen ahead of her funeral on Monday (local time).

The photo was uploaded to her social media on Sunday night (local time) and shows a beaming Queen Elizabeth II smiling directly at the camera.

Its caption said it was taken this year, but didn't specify the day or date.

However, it's believed it would have been taken in the first half of the year ahead of her Platinum Jubilee in June.

"Ahead of Her Majesty The Queen’s Funeral, a new photograph has been released," the Instagram post said.

"It was taken this year to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, as she became the first British Monarch to reach this milestone.

"Tomorrow, millions will come together to commemorate her remarkable life." 

Royal fans have camped out in their droves in London hoping to secure a spot at the Queen's funeral.

The broadcast of the event is expected to be one of the biggest global television moments, with billions expected to tune in.

At 7:30pm Newhub's Queen Elizabeth II's funeral special will begin on Three, led by Samantha Hayes and Melissa Chan-Green. 

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