In the latest sign of a return to normality, the ceremony returned for the first time since March 2020. Although the Queen was not there to see it, as she is on her annual break to Balmoral, hundreds watched as No 3 Company from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, with their regimental band, marched from Wellington Barracks to the Palace to take over from Nijmegen Company, Grenadier Guards.

       It was not publicised due to fears of unmanageable crowds but a sizeable number were present.

       The Ministry of Defence is urging the public to be tested and maintain social distancing during the event, which will be every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

       Among the soldiers was Garrison Sergeant Major Andrew Stokes. He said: "It's a very special day."

       He said it should be seen as "a celebration that the UK, Great Britain, is back to normal ？ as best as we can be in the circumstances".