The celebrations to mark the Queen’s 80th birthday today will have a warmth and affection rarely displayed nowadays towards the monarchy. It is not simply that the nation’s head of state has reached a venerable age in good health and robust spirit, or that she continues to perform her duties with diligence, tact and aplomb; it is the sense that the Queen has come to embody qualities and values that are recognised as important to our society. And at a time of accelerating social, cultural and economic change, her enduring example of continuity, tolerance and moderation is of inestimable value.

These values were shaped more than two generations ago, when Britain was a very different country — as our special anniversary supplement tellingly demonstrates. Since making her solemn oath in Westminster Abbey more than half a century ago, the Queen has consistently upheld the values of loyalty, respect, stoicism and reserve that she believes intrinsic to the monarchy and to her duty. They have not always found favour. A decade ago, amid demeaning rumour and titillating gossip, there was a sense that the monarchy was floundering, an expensive anachronism that was proving unable to adapt. The Queen, it was suggested, should abdicate to allow the change that only another generation could usher in.

All such talk has ended. Not only has the Queen made it abundantly clear that she believes her responsibility to be one entrusted for life; but the very values that were seen as old-fashioned and no longer representative of cool Britannia are now held in new respect.

The Queen commands, most Britons would concede, a deference due to personal discipline that is all too rare nowadays. “Wisdom” is an abused word, but she has consistently been wise. Her perceptive interest in the nation’s political life, as well as international affairs, has given her an un- rivalled experience. Her discretion reflects an understanding of the limits of constitutional monarchy. And her reserve protects her privacy and preserves the essential mystery of monarchy.

It is the Queen’s very age that inspires respect. For not only is her sense of duty undiminished (and the talk of slowing down appears to be mere speculation); but her dry wit and intellectual curiosity demonstrate to a country too often dismissive of its senior citizens the essential contributions that older Britons — an ever larger proportion of the population — still make to national life. The humour indicates that she takes her role seriously but herself a little less so, and that she has a comprehension of her context that has gradually given her more confidence in the exercise of her responsibilies.

The Queen does not respond publicly to pressure. She does not reply to criticism, deny press allegations or change routines according to fad and vogue. But she does, quietly and with measured caution, respond to the national mood. Her themes, broadcasts, gestures and visits adroitly reflect the changes. Her decision to hold a celebration at Buckingham Palace for 99 other octogenarians was inspired: a symbol of inclusiveness, respect and diversity that gave much unexpected delight to those invited. Today it will be the nation’s turn to throw a party for her. It will be a very happy birthday.