Tributes paid to Queen Elizabeth II following her death at Balmoral
The death of Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, has led to a mass of tributes including contributions from the three local councils in West Suffolk.
She died peacefully this afternoon (Thursday, September 8) at the age of 96 and after reigning for 70 years, at her Scottish estate, where she had spent much of the summer.
The Queen came to the throne in 1952 and witnessed enormous social change.
Her son King Charles III said the death of his beloved mother was a “moment of great sadness” for him and his family and that her loss would be “deeply felt” around the world.
Councillor Mike Chester Chair of West Suffolk Council said: “It was with deep sorrow and regret that we heard the announcement of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. On behalf of councillors in West Suffolk, as well as residents throughout our area, we send our sincere condolences.
“Queen Elizabeth II was a well-known and much-loved figure in our part of the world. Her abiding passion for horseracing made her a frequent visitor to its national home, Newmarket, and the visits she made to Bury St Edmunds (especially the celebration of her Golden Jubilee) live long in local memories.
“Indeed, she visited many places in West Suffolk where her interest in the lives of those who live and work here were appreciated by all who met her.
“At a time when changes to our everyday lives are continuous, the Queen was a constant. Her dedication to the duty of being our monarch was exemplary, especially to those in, or aspiring to, public service. Her experience, knowledge and compassion were appreciated by so many people and, to put it simply, we will miss her tremendously.
“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time – the sadness at their loss is shared by us all.”
Kathryn Grandon, Babergh District Council chairman, said: “Today we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Royal family at this very sad time and send our condolences. There will be a real sense of loss across the nation. Her many years of service to this county and across the world will never be forgotten. The Queen will always be remembered with great affection and her visits to the district remembered with great fondness.”
And James Caston, Mid Suffolk District Council Chairman, added: “The loss of Her Majesty The Queen will be felt personally and profoundly all across the district and our nation. She had a long and eventful life, and it was well lived. We think of her with sadness today, but also with joy for what she brought to this great country. She reigned for over seven decades of incredible British history and for the vast majority of us, she has been the monarch for our whole lives. Today, joining with so many others across the world, on behalf of Mid Suffolk District Council I convey our condolences at this time of national mourning.”