The Queen has issued a statement to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo in which she offered a rare insight into her family history.

Queen Camilla, whose father Major Bruce Shand served during World War II, was remembering the civilian war effort at Dunkirk in 1940 that saved 338,000 troops.

Her Majesty said: “Today and together with the nation, The King and I would like to remember the unprecedented civilian war effort of Operation Dynamo on its 85th Anniversary. Over nine days, an eclectic collection of seafarers, ferry masters, barge hands, fishermen, and children, with their Little Ships, achieved the great evacuation of more than 338,000 troops who were fighting with their backs to the sea at Dunkirk.

“My father, who was amongst their number and safely transported home 85 years ago today, recalled wading out to a cement ship to find refuge and rest in its wheel-house. He noted in his memoirs that ‘The ship was commanded by a midshipman who looked about twelve, assisted by a boatswain, aged eighty.’”

“I know my father, together with his comrades of the British Expeditionary Force and the allied armies that were fortunate enough to find safe passage, would today be grateful beyond words for this lifeline.”

Her Majesty signed off her statement with: “Camilla R.”