Many people think of the Queen as the nation’s grandmother, but to Sir Rod Stewart she is “almost like a sister”.

       The singer paid tribute to the monarch ahead of Saturday’s Platinum Party at the Palace to mark the jubilee.

       He is one of dozens of acts taking part in the concert outside Buckingham Palace, along with Diana Ross, Duran Duran and Sam Ryder, the star of this year’s Eurovision.

       Explaining what the Platinum Jubilee means to him, Sir Rod said: “It’s pride in being British. It’s the pageantry, the romance.

       “I’ve grown up with this woman. I was seven when she came to the throne so she’s always been part of my life, and the fact that I’ve met her on several occasions makes it even more important for me.

       “She has been so much part of my life, almost like a sister. She has always been in the background of my life.”

       Sir Rod told BBC News that he will be singing a song he has never performed before.

       Sir Elton John has pre-recorded his performance, but the other stars will appear in person.

       Queen will open the show, in a nod to the 2002 Golden Jubilee - when Brian May played God Save the Queen from the roof of Buckingham Palace.

       Speaking about the invitation to appear at Saturday’s concert, May said: “There was a moment when I wondered: after the Buckingham Palace roof, where can you go? Well, you will see.”

       Diana Ross will close the show in her first UK live performance in 15 years. She is said to be a favourite of the Prince of Wales.

       Ross said: “I have had the honour of meeting the Queen many times throughout my life, including when I was with my family.

       “Her Majesty has and continues to be such an incredible inspiration to so many across the world and I was absolutely delighted to receive an invitation to perform on such a momentous and historic occasion.”

       Three interconnected stages have been erected around the Victoria Memorial at the top of The Mall. The design incorporates 70 illuminated columns, one for each year of the Queen’s reign.

       About 22,000 spectators will attend, with 10,000 tickets allocated via ballot and a further 7,500 allocated to key workers, volunteers, charity workers and members of the Armed Forces.

       The Met Office is predicting thunderstorms towards the end of the show, although bad weather is unlikely to dampen spirits.