Queen Elizabeth II: Trouble, strife and family life

In this file photo taken on September 9, 1960 Britain's Queen Elizabeth II (second from right), Britain's Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and their three children Prince Charles (right), Princess Anne (left) and Prince Andrew pose in the grounds of Balmoral Castle, near the village of Crathie in Aberdeenshire. Photos: AFP

As queen, Elizabeth II's family life was far from traditional - she was often away for long stretches, was frequently occupied by work and had at times complicated relationships with her four children.

She was 22 and still a princess when her eldest son and heir apparent, Charles, was born, and 24 when Princess Anne came along.