National anthem

We all hope to be enjoying the national anthem on plenty of occasions during the London 2012 Games, as God save the Queen will of course be sung at Victory Ceremonies where Team GB medal winning athletes celebrate their success.

The anthem is also played on occasion at the start of events, such as Wednesday’s women’s football match versus New Zealand, but an extended version is being used for the Games so fans and athletes need to know their lines!

As not too many of us are familiar with the extended version, here are the lyrics so you don’t get caught short, including a second lesser known verse:

God save our gracious Queen!

Long live our noble Queen!

God save the Queen!

Send her victorious,

Happy and glorious,

Long to reign over us,

God save the Queen.

Thy choicest gifts in store

On her be pleased to pour,

Long may she reign.

May she defend our laws,

And give us ever cause,

To sing with heart and voice,

God save the Queen.

So there you have it folks, the extended version you all need to know. Keep calm and carry on singing.