As the nation looks set to be gripped by Golden Jubilee fever, our columnists RUPERT SMYTHE and RACHEL BRADMAN look at the festivities from two sides and determine whether it is simply a case of much ado about majestic nothing or a darn good reason to celebrate our monarch's half-century...

Loyal royalist

WHAT a wonderful 50 years this has been for our glorious country!

After we had won the war against those terrible Germans in 1945, there were many questions I asked myself about the state of this nation and its future.

I kept asking this question until the sad death of our sovereign George VI on February 7, 1952, the King who led us through the hardships of the blitz and the battlefield.

As he passed away, it seemed as if he took a bit of that horror with him, and a new era had begun.

And when Queen Elizabeth II took the throne it was a momentous moment for the people of the British Isles.

We had entered a new age, with new problems to face.

The threat of invasion posed by our European neighbours had been replaced with the battle of minds in the Cold War, and society continued to change immeasurably.

Throughout this time, and over the past 50 years, our Queen has led us with grace and bravery, handling distasteful problems, such as the disastrous Diana, with a conviction which is an example to us all.

And, for those who argue against celebrating the half century since our ruler's accession, muttering that the monarchy is outdated, I would like to point out that our Queen is even posting messages of thanks to her loyal subjects on the internet (visit www.royal.gov.uk).

It is my belief that refusing to celebrate our majestic ruler's Golden Jubilee is tantamount to treason, an offence for which there is still only one punishment.

Yours furiously

Colonel Rupert Z Smythe (ret)

Why the fuss?

I DON'T understand what the fuss and bother about this 50-year thing is all about.

The Queen has occupied the throne for 50 years and we are supposed to care?

She may have sent her personal message of thanks to the nation.

But so she should.

Her thanks to us all should relate to her trips around the world on private jets, the fact that she has a swanky pad just off Pall Mall, which would be worth millions on the property market, and that she has more holiday than anyone else.

Maybe the perspective on royalty and their place in society is changing, as many people are apathetic towards them.

Don't get me wrong.

The monarchy is all well and good.

But the nation doesn't come to a standstill and celebrate everyone who has put in 50 years service.

What about doctors, scientists, engineers and campaigners who have made a real difference to lives in a positive way?

There are no two-day holidays for them. No ceremonial plates, mugs, spoons, wall hangings and coins to collect.

The commercial market is being well and truly exploited already.

The nation's celebration for someone doing his or her job seems to be clouded by who these people are rather than what they do.

And just how many people will be rejoicing for the Queen and her achievements in June?

Most will surely see it as an extended weekend and scamper off on holiday.