Almost 24m tune in to watch Queen’s 'we will meet again' address to the nation

Over 23.5 million viewers watched the Queen's address to the nation: BUCKINGHAM PALACE/AFP via Getty
Over 23.5 million viewers watched the Queen's address to the nation: BUCKINGHAM PALACE/AFP via Getty

More than 23.5 million viewers watched the Queen’s televised coronavirus address to the nation, figures released today reveal.

In one of the biggest television audiences of the year , more than 14.1 million watched the address on BBC1 — with millions more watching on ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5.

As Sky News and other news channels also broadcast the address, the total figure is likely to be higher.

The data does not include radio listeners, internet or international viewers.

Last night, the Queen delivered a message of hope, saying if Britons “remain united and resolute” in the face of the outbreak “we will overcome it”.

She warned the country “may have more still to endure” but echoed Dame Vera Lynne’s Second World War anthem, by saying: “We will meet again.”

In a pre-recorded message, the Queen thanked frontline NHS staff, care workers and others for “selflessly” performing essential roles.

Read more

Troubled department store Debenhams placed into administration

Princess Eugenie and Fergie thank Queen for moving coronavirus speech

How to buy NHS workers a thank-you pint during the coronavirus crisis