THE leader of Harlow Council has paid tribute to “our much-loved sovereign” following the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth.

Councillor Russell Perrin, Leader of Harlow Council, said: “I share the country’s sadness of the passing of our much-loved Sovereign.  It is hard to imagine Great Britain without her gentle majesty. She was true to her words until the very end ‘Duty first, self-second’. 

“The deep affection for The Queen is felt globally as the people of nations from across the Commonwealth and around the World pay tribute to a truly remarkable leader. Her legacy will remain for centuries to come, she will be sorely missed by all.”

“I would like to share at this time a very touching poem by Joanne Boyle, it reads as such:

‘Phillip came to me today, 

and said it was time to go. 

I looked at him and smiled,

as i whispered that “I know”

I then turned and looked behind me, 

and saw I was asleep. 

All my Family were around me, 

and I could hear them weep. 

I gently touched each shoulder, 

with Phillip by my side. 

Then I turned away and walked, 

with My Angel guide. 

Phillip held my hand, 

as he lead the way, 

to a world where King’s and Queens, 

are Monarch’s every day. 

I was given a crown to wear

or a Halo known by some. 

The difference is up here, 

they are worn by everyone. 

I felt a sense of peace, 

my reign had seen its end. 

70 years I had served my Country, 

as the people’s friend. 

Thank you for the years, 

for all your time and love. 

Now I am one of two again, 

in our Palace up above.’

 “My thoughts are with His Majesty The King and the Royal Family at this difficult time. 

 “As a town I know we will stand together in the days ahead, to support each other, the King and the Royal Family and to remember our great Queen.”