Orkney mourns the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II
Orkney has paid tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II who died earlier today at the age of 96.
Lord Lieutenant for Orkney, Elaine Grieve, said today was a day of “great sadness” and that she was a “symbol of stability through decades in which the world has seen many changes”.
Mrs Grieve said: “In Orkney we remember her visits to the county as we send our deepest condolences to all members of the Royal family as we look back with gratitude and look forward to offering our support and loyalty to The King.”
Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael said, for the last 70 years, Her Majesty has been “at the centre of our nation’s life”.
“The country has lost a much loved monarch but the King and the rest of the Royal Family have lost a mother, grandmother and a great grandmother. We send them the deepest condolences and sympathies.”
Convener of Orkney Islands Council, Councillor Graham Bevan expressed his deepest sympathies to His Majesty the King and The Royal Family.
He said: “The council and the Orkney community join the nation in mourning for Her Majesty the Queen. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all members of The Royal Family and honour her long service and duty to her country as our Queen.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston paid tribute to her “unparalleled distinction” since taking the throne in 1952, and wished the new King well at this difficult time.
“Her Majesty witnessed huge changes during her long reign, yet remained a constant symbol of duty, even into her later years. From a young woman coming to the throne in 1952 to today, she has shown incredible devotion to her role and her people.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant said Her Majesty had been “at the forefront of British culture for 70 years”.
“She has been steady in the face of political upheaval and represented a comforting consistency for people across the commonwealth during turbulent times. She will be sorely missed and leave a lasting legacy of patience, practicality and humour.”
Flags around Orkney have been lowered to half-mast including at the council offices in Kirkwall.
On Friday, a book of condolence will be opened at St Magnus Cathedral with others to follow in locations across Orkney. These will remain open until 5pm on the day after Her Majesty’s funeral.
Flowers can be laid at the Kirk Green outside St Magnus Cathedral — other locations will be announced in due course.
Arrangements are being made for the reading of the Proclamation — and further details will be released in due course.
Also as a mark of respect, and in line with national guidance, the council will cancel or postpone all non-essential meetings of council business until after the funeral.