The emotional reason why the Queen leaves her Christmas tree up until February
The royal family have many traditions that are not adhered to by everyone else, one being that they do not remove any of their Christmas decorations until February.
The royal family enjoy the magic of the Christmas tree, tinsel, baubles and wreaths, up until February 6 each year.
However, there is a heartbreaking reason behind the Queen’s extension of the Christmas season.
It is believed the 91-year-old Sovereign waits until the anniversary of her father, King George VI’s death until the decorations are packed down.
The Queen stays at Sandringham Estate in Norfolk until the anniversary has passed so that she can remember her father in solitude before returning to Buckingham Palace.
Queen Elizabeth and her father were very close when she was growing up and after marrying Prince Philip, King George VI wrote a letter to his daughter saying he “had lost something” that day.
"I was so proud and thrilled at having you so close to me on our long walk in Westminster Abbey," the late King wrote in the letter, which was revealed to the public in 2015 to mark the Queen and Prince Philip’s 68th wedding anniversary.
"But when I handed your hand to the Archbishop, I felt I had lost something very precious.
"You were so calm and composed during the service and said your words with such conviction that I knew everything was alright.
"I have watched you grow up all these years with pride under the skilful direction of Mummy, who, as you know, is the most marvellous person in the world in my eyes, and I can, I know, always count on you and now Philip to help us in our work.
"Your leaving us has left a great blank in our lives. But do remember that your old home is still yours and do come back to it as much and as often as possible.
"I can see that you are sublimely happy with Philip which is right but don't forget us, is the wish of your ever loving and devoted... Papa."
King George VI sadly passed away from lung cancer on February 6, 1952.