Queen of Denmark announces abdication live on TV

The Queen of Denmark has announced her abdication in her New Year address live on television.

Europe's longest reigning monarch said she will abdicate in January, leaving the throne to her son, Crown Prince Frederik.

The 83-year-old explained her decision to pass on the crown had been influenced by having to have back surgery earlier in 2023.

"The surgery naturally also prompted thoughts about the future, whether it was time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation. I have decided that now is the right time," she said.