The Queen has been entertained by a host of stars tonight as she attended the Royal Variety Performance in Blackpool, hosted by Bolton comedian Peter Kay.

More than 1,000 people turned out to catch a glimpse of Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh as they arrived for the gala evening.

Wearing a black gown and shawl, designed by Angela Kelly, the Queen smiled at the crowd gathered outside the Opera House, where the star-studded performance is being held.

Veteran comedian Frank Carson greeted the royal couple inside the famous theatre, while his three young granddaughters presented the Queen with a posy of flowers.

Classical singer Faryl Smith led the National Anthem, alongside The Soldiers - Trooper Ryan Idzi, Sergeant Richie Maddocks and Sergeant Major Gary Chilton - a singing trio who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Peter Kay welcomed the Queen to Blackpool, declaring it “the entertainment capital of the world”.

He said his Nan was sitting near the monarch and they would be “swapping fudge by the interval”.

”She might be in her 80s but she still pulls her wheelie bin out every Tuesday night. I just wish my Nanna would,” he joked.