Queen Elizabeth II Reveals 'Great Sadness' at Prince Philip's Death on Birthday

Queen Elizabeth II revealed her "great sadness" at the death of husband Prince Philip during a message marking her 95th birthday today.

The monarch buried her husband of 73 years in a funeral service watched around the world on Saturday, just four days before her birthday.

The Duke of Edinburgh's death leaves Elizabeth entering a new phase of her reign, without the support and guidance of a man she called her "strength and stay."

The queen's message, released by Buckingham Palace, reads: "I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate.

"While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world.

"My family and I would like to thank you all for the support and kindness shown to us in recent days. We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life."

The queen, who signed off the message with her customary Elizabeth R., was forced to mourn alone at Philip's funeral due to coronavirus restrictions.

Just 30 guests were allowed at St. George's Chapel, in Windsor Castle, where some royals were seen blinking away tears.

Prince Charles and Princess Anne led royals walking behind their father's coffin, while Prince William and Prince Harry were further back in the procession.

Buckingham Palace posted to the royal family's official Twitter account: "Today is The Queen's 95th birthday. HM was born on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in London, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York.

"This year The Queen remains at Windsor Castle during a period of Royal Mourning following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh."

The Queen marks her birthday still in coronavirus isolation this year, surrounded by a bubble of loyal staff.

However, COVID restrictions in the U.K. allow groups of up to six people to meet outdoors.

Prince Harry is believed to have flown home to California after pictures published in the Daily Mail appeared to show his car arriving at LAX Airport to pick him up.

Meanwhile, Prince Charles is at his home in Wales where it is customary for him to stay at this time of year.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson posted on Twitter: "I would like to send my warm wishes to Her Majesty The Queen on her 95th birthday.

"I have always had the highest admiration for Her Majesty and her service to this country and the Commonwealth. I am proud to serve as her Prime Minister."