BRIDGWATER residents have laid flowers at St Mary's Church and King Square after Queen Elizabeth II died “peacefully” at Balmoral Castle yesterday.
The church opened at 9.30am today (Friday) to allow people to pay their respects to the UK's longest-reigning monarch, with prayers said at 12pm.
A spokesperson said: “We come together as we mourn the death of Her Majesty the Queen. We pray for the Royal Family and one another.
“Although our grief is deep, so also is the gratitute in our hearts for her service and the inspiration she has been.
“The church will be open from 9.30am for you to come in and pay your respects, to pray, leave messages of condolence and find some space amongst friends.
“Prayers will be said at 12 noon.
“May she rest in peace and rise in glory.”
Despite today's rain, a handful of flower bouquets have been left in the church grounds.
One tribute said: “Your Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
“Thank you for your dedicated service to us all. You have been an inspiration and comfort for the last 70 years.
“Rest easy now, and enjoy your retirement with Prince Philip. Sending love to your family and friends.”
Another simply read: “God bless you Lilibet. RIP.”
The chairman and chief executive of Sedgemoor District Council have laid a wreath in memory of the Queen at King Square.
The wreath carries a message that says: “Our deepest sympathies laid on behalf of all in Sedgemoor district area by chairman Cllr Alan Bradford.”
Others have rested flowers against the Bridgwater War Memorial in the square.
The Chairman and Chief Executive of Sedgemoor District Council have laid a wreath in King Square in memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
— SedgemoorDC (@SedgemoorDC) September 9, 2022
If you wish to add your own floral tribute there is an area in King Square
Please remove cellophane from flowers before placing them pic.twitter.com/lPCuLlqP9h
People who leave tributes are asked to remove the cellophane from their flowers.
King Charles III received condolences from well-wishers when he arrived at Buckingham Palace this afternoon for the first time as monarch.
The King is expected to address the nation on television on Friday evening after holding his first audience with the Prime Minister, Liz Truss.
You can leave a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II in our online book of condolence.
Submissions will appear on our website HERE.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here