Obama gives support to the Queen at lavish state banquet

England-Barack Obama: As we approach the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I'm particular grateful for the solidarity that the United Kingdom has shown to America over the past decade.


"From that day to this you have been our closest partner in the struggle to protect our people from terrorism attacks and violent extremism from around the world despite very heavy sacrifices here.


"And allow me to pay tribute to the contributions of your military forces who have stood shoulder to shoulder with us for decades."


The politician went on to highlight the unique position the Queen holds: "As we confront the challenges of the 21st century together we can have confidence in the partnership our two countries share, based on a rock-solid foundation built during Queen Elizabeth's lifetime of extraordinary service to her nation and to the world."


He started by telling the Queen he brought "warm greetings" from tens of millions of Americans who claim British ancestry.
He said in: Buckingham Palace's ballroom impresses on a normal day with its grandeur and rich furnishings but with the added attraction of a lavishly decorated dining table looked stunning.
Magnificent large floral displays filled the air with the scent of roses and below them were seated A-list movie stars and leading figures from British politics and business.
Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey, who is artistic director of London's Old Vic theatre, was sitting between the Countess of Wessex and Barbara Sandler, the wife of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Michael Bear.
Director Tim Burton, famed for his fantasy films, had Princess Alexandra, the Hon Lady Ogilvy on one side and Justine Thornton, the fiancee of Labour Party leader Ed Miliband on the other.
Another A-list star was Tom Hanks who was sitting with Ffion Hague the wife of Foreign Secretary William Hague.
The large horse-shoe shaped table was set for 170 guests and the two heads of state sat at its head, surrounded by prominent members of the monarchy and both the British and American governments.
The Queen was sitting between the President and the Duke of Edinburgh while on Philip's left was Michelle Obama, next to her was the Prince of Wales, then US secretary of state Hillary Clinton, and finally Prime Minister David Cameron.
Mr Obama had the Duchess of Cornwall on his right and she in turn was sitting next to the Lord Chancellor Kenneth Clarke, Jane Williams, the wife of Dr Rowan Williams the Archbishop of Canterbury and finally the Duke of York.
The chefs in the palace kitchens had prepared on paper what seemed a simple dish of new seasoned lamb and roast potatoes, but the Queen's head chef Mark Flanagan, who has worked with some of Europe's best cooks, created a sumptuous meal with his staff.
The meal was complemented by vintage champagne and for those who wanted an end of meal tipple, Royal