Navy to fire a 21-gun salute in Gosport to mark Queen's 90th birthday

The Royal Navy salute, at noon, is one of many taking place at military establishments across the country.

The event is one of six royal events marked annually with military gun salutes.

Elsewhere, Royal Navy ships alongside in Portsmouth Naval Base will be ‘dressed overall’ – displaying a variety of flags across the length of the ship – to celebrate the occasion.

Commander David Hilton, naval base services manager, said: ‘The Royal Navy in Portsmouth always celebrates the Queen’s birthday in this way, but this year is obviously extra special as it marks such a significant milestone for Her Majesty.’

The custom of navy gun salutes dates back to the early days of sail when ships visiting foreign ports would discharge their guns before entering, proving they were empty and their visit was peaceful.

The portable 19th century gun at Fort Blockhouse has been firing salutes since it was acquired by the navy in 1957.