Queen Elizabeth makes surprise appearance at opening of London train line

Queen Elizabeth was all smiles during a surprise appearance at the opening of a train line in London, marking one her first public engagements as she battles health and mobility issues.

Dressed in bright yellow and equipped with a walking stick, the queen arrived at Paddington Station on Tuesday to celebrate the completion of the Elizabeth line, which was named in her honor. Her son, Prince Edward, was by her side at the event, which was also attended by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and London mayor Sadiq Khan.

In a statement to BBC News, a Buckingham Palace spokeswoman called the appearance a “happy development.” It also marked one of her first outside the Windsor area since she attended the Duke of Edinburgh’s memorial service in Westminster Abbey nearly two months ago.

“Her Majesty was aware of the engagement and the organizers were informed of the possibility she may attend,” she added.

In recent months, the 96-year-old royal has suffered mobility issues and has canceled several appearances, including the opening of Parliament last week. She seemed in good spirits Tuesday as she chatted with staff members of the West London train line including drivers, station staff and apprentices.

Queen Elizabeth, who stayed at the the station for about 10 minutes, also unveiled a plaque celebrating the official opening of the line.

The long-delayed Crossrail project was expected to be completed in December 2018. It’s now slated to open to the public on May 24, according to Transport for London.