Millions watched around the globe as a nation in mourning staged a final goodbye to the Queen just months after her Platinum Jubilee.

PA news agency photographers captured some of the more unusual aspects of British culture.

Highlights of 2022 in the animal kingdom.

The relaxing of Covid’s grip saw the country start on the road to normality but it was tempered by sadness at the passing of the Queen.

It was a marked change from December 26 last year, when parts of the UK were still facing Covid-19 restrictions.

Amid political deadlock, the country has seen pro-Irish unity party Sinn Fein become the largest at Stormont.

Chilly winter temperatures across the UK did not stop hundreds of people taking to lakes, ponds and the sea.

City centres, country parks and private homes are sparkling in the run-up to the big day.

Brighton has hosted a festive parade to mark the longest night of the year.

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Snow and fog blanketed the country on Monday as the icy snap continued.

It is the first snowy day of winter for some.

St Conan’s Kirk in Argyll has opened its doors for an annual Christmas tree festival.

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Tourists exploring the historic Berkshire royal residence will be able to see it transformed for the festive season.

A Met Office yellow rain warning is in place for the whole of Thursday.

All eyes are on Jeremy Hunt, who promises a plan to weather an economic ‘storm’.

The King laid a wreath at the Cenotaph for the first time in his role as head of state.

The country fell silent at 11am to mark the anniversary of the end of the First World War.