THE Queen received the keys to Perth as thousands of people gathered to welcome her to Scotland's newest city.

She was presented with the keys to the city at the Viewpoint overlooking the River Tay.

She arrived with the Duke of Edinburgh, who was given the Freedom of the City, on the final day of her week-long residence in Scotland.

Perth became Scotland's seventh city when it was granted the status earlier this year as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Thousands of people lined the streets to see the Queen, waving Union flags and saltires.

After being presented with the keys by Perth's new provost Elizabeth Grant, the Queen said: "I have many happy memories of previous visits to Perth, including the opening of the Queens Bridge in 1960 and more recently the opening of Perth Concert Hall.

"I would like to congratulate you all warmly on the restoration of city status.

"It is an accolade that is well-earned and Prince Philip and I extend to all of you our very best wishes for the future and our thanks for welcoming us warmly today."

The presentation was followed by a performance by the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland.

The Queen, dressed in a yellow coat and matching hat with pink feathers, then made a short walk past the crowds, accepting a posy of flowers from one girl.

Among those who saw her up close was Sandra Paterson, from Perth. She said: "It was really special, particularly to have seen her during the Diamond Jubilee year."

Margaret Lafferty, also from Perth, said: "She was so close you could have reached out to touch her. The Queen really does such a great job. It was well worth coming down to see her today."

The day's events also included a visit to the Black Watch Museum at Balhousie Castle and Perth College, University of the Highlands and Islands, before lunch at Scone Palace.

The visit to Perth followed a number of Royal Week events this week, including an engagement at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh, a garden party and investiture ceremony at Holyrood Palace and a special jubilee thanksgiving service in Glasgow.