In pictures: The Queen's visits to Falkirk

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh leaving the Burgh Buildings in Falkirk accompanied by Provost R H Watson. Behind the Provost is James Stuart, Secretary of State for Scotland royal visit

And Falkirk Bairns have been no exception when she has visited the district on no less than five occasions over the decades.

Her first visit as Queen was in 1955 when she carried out a Scottish tour that took her across the country and made her first visit to Falkirk. She inspected troops in Newmarket Street and met with the Provost and other dignitaries in the former Burgh Buildings, now the registrar’s office.

Along with Prince Philip, she made a visit to Grangemouth where she was shown round the ICI plant.

Her tour also took her to Linlithgow and South Queensferry.

In 1960 she was across the Forth in Kincardine to open the new power station, even visiting one worker in his home.

Her next visit to Falkirk wasn’t until 1985 when, despite heavy rain, people turned out in their hundreds when she officially opened the new Mariner Sports Centre.

In 2002, the Queen and Prince Philip were back, this time to perform the opening of the Falkirk Wheel.

The royal couple’s most recent visit was in 2011 when Her Majesty officially opened Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert.

Falkirk’s First Citizen, Provost Pat Reid, admitted that he had never had the opportunity to be presented to the Queen, but was honoured to pass on the district’s congratulations on the occasion of her 90th birthday today (Thursday).

He said: “She has always carried out her duties admirably and is very much respected.

“I am delighted to wish her a very happy birthday – and long may she reign over us.”