A book of condolence opened at County Hall today (Friday) following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the country's longest reigning monarch.

At midday, Vice Lord Lieutenant, Col. Murray Colville, Leicestershire County Council, Chairman Kevin Feltham, Leader Nick Rushton, and Deputy Leader Deborah Taylor, signed the book where residents and staff can leave tributes to Her Majesty, who sadly passed away on Thursday.

Lord Lieutenant, Mike Kapur, was also in attendance to witness the opening of the book.

Leader Cllr Rushton - also an Ashby town councillor - said: "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a bright and shining light who embodied the spirit, unity and duty of our nation and county.

"We offer King Charles III our loyalty and devotion, just as his mother devoted so much, to so many, for so long. I hope people will come and share their messages of sympathy and memories."

Chairman Cllr Feltham, said: "The Queen dedicated her life to the country and my thoughts remain with the King and the Royal Family. Signing the book of condolence is an opportunity for the people of Leicestershire to reflect on their memories of The Queen and pay their respects."

Deputy leader Cllr Taylor said: "I know the thoughts of everyone in Leicestershire and with The Queen's close family as the whole world mourns this great lady."

County Hall will be lit up in purple until after The Queen's funeral and flags are flying at half-mast.

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In line with national guidance, public meetings due to take place over the 10-day mourning period are being postponed.

An extraordinary meeting of the County Council will be held at County Hall, at 2pm on Tuesday, 13 September to pay tribute to The Queen. The meeting will be webcast live HERE.