Clarke congratulates Queen on becoming longest reigning British Monarch

South Antrim MLAs Paul Girvan and Trevor Clarke.

Mr Clarke said: “It is only right that we celebrate HM The Queen on such a day, as it is an opportunity to express gratitude for her faithful service to our country.”

Mr Clarke said he was delighted to have been able to attend an event on Wednesday night, hosted by DUP MLA Arlene Foster in Parliament Buildings, Stormont to mark the record service of HM The Queen.

“It was great to see a display of important artefacts which included a throne, which HM The Queen used when she visited Stormont, many years ago,” Mr Clarke said.

He added: “It was also great to meet Lord Lieutenant of Co. Down, David Lindsay who spoke exceedingly of HM The Queen and how she has serviced our country well and may she continue to do so.

“I am aware the First Minister, Peter Robinson has expressed congratulations and gratitude to HM The Queen on behalf of Northern Ireland, of which I am sure she accepted with merit. God Save the Queen.”