Queen tells Taoiseach of her desire to return to Ireland

Queen Elizabeth II has indicated to Taoiseach Enda Kenny that she would like to return to Ireland.

The Taoiseach said she made the comments to him as she boarded her flight at Cork Airport this evening.

Mr Kenny has praised the Gardaí, the Defence Forces and the Air Corps for their work over the last four days.

The Queen has left Ireland, following a four-day visit to Dublin, Kildare, Tipperary and Cork.

She was the first British monarch to visit Ireland in 100 years and the trip passed without any major incident.

Failte Ireland has hailed the event a huge success saying 11,500 articles were written about the visit worldwide.

This evening the Queen's flight has lifted off from Cork Airport, bringing to an end an historic visit many thought would never happen.

The Queen was loudly cheered by hundreds of schoolchildren today as she arrived in Cork city on the final part of her momentous trip to Ireland.

As she walked the short distance from her motorcade to the English Market, she stopped and turned to the crowds who lined streets.

The very public welcome in the heart of the “Rebel County” was the first time the Queen has been so close to well-wishers on this trip.

Traders and staff inside the renowned market also applauded as the Queen inspected butchers’ counters packed with meat, as well as fish and other stalls run by grocers.

Fishmonger Pat O’Connell shared several minutes with the Queen, displaying some of his finest fish, including Dublin Bay prawns.

The Queen was presented with a hamper of Irish foods, and a number of books on the history of the English Market.

After touring the market the Queen made her first walkabout, crossing the street to shake hands with spectators.

Despite the excited but relaxed atmosphere, there was a huge Garda presence throughout Cork city.

Security chiefs had been especially nervous about this part of the trip, the final engagement.

The Queen walked about 150 yards in what appeared to be a spur of the moment decision to greet cheering crowds.

The vast majority of those waiting to welcome her were youngsters out of school although one young woman attempted to one step further waving a Union Jack mug as the Queen left for her final engagement.