THE CHAIR of Harlow Council has paid tribute to Her Majesty The Queen, who has died aged 96.

Councillor Andrew Johnson, Chair of Harlow Council, said:

“Today is an incredibly sad day for our proud nation and the commonwealth. Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to His Majesty The King and to the Royal Family following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“Our magnificent Queen will be remembered as both the greatest and longest reigning monarchs the UK and world has ever known.

“The union flag outside the Civic Centre is flying at half-mast as a mark of respect and books of condolence will open tomorrow for Harlow people to express their condolences and share their messages of support to the Royal Family at this difficult time.

“This is a moment when the country will unite, to stand together, to support each other through our shared grief and to remember our beloved Queen.”

Further details on where residents can leave local floral tributes and sign books of condolence will follow tomorrow.