Queen Elizabeth II

It was with profound sadness that I learned of the death of Her Majesty The Queen on Thursday 8 September 2022, at Balmoral, aged 96.

Queen Elizabeth II reigned for more than 70 years and was the longest-serving monarch in British history. During her reign we have seen major changes in many aspects of our society and times of great turbulence, but she has remained a constant in our lives throughout, a serene and measured presence as our head of state. As a nation we mourn her passing with enormous sorrow.

On behalf of the town of Bridport I offer our sincerest condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time, and our deepest gratitude for Her Majesty’s lifelong service as the mother of our nation.

Except for a short period following the proclamation of a new monarch, Union Flags at the Town Hall, Mountfield, and Bridport Cemetery will fly at half-mast.

From Friday 9 September a Book of Condolence will be available on weekdays, between 9.00am and 6.00pm, at the Town Hall, until the day following the funeral. Those wishing to use the lift located in the Tourist Information Centre to access the Town Hall are advised to do so between 9.00am and 5.00pm.

For those unable to visit in person who would like to express written condolences, these should be sent to the Town Clerk, Bridport Town Council, Mountfield, Rax Lane, Bridport DT6 3JP, or email [email protected], for inclusion in the Book of Condolence.

For those wishing to lay flowers in remembrance of the Queen, please place your tributes in Bucky Doo Square, around the tree, mindful of the need to maintain a public thoroughfare. We ask that any flowers are unwrapped, and no non-compostable items are used.

Subject to timings to be confirmed by national protocol, it is expected that the local proclamation of Her Majesty’s successor will take place at 3pm on Sunday 11 September, outside the Town Hall in Bucky Doo Square. The date of the funeral has yet to be confirmed.

There will also be a Civic Service at St Mary’s Church, Bridport on Thursday 15 September. This will begin at 6.30pm and you are all welcome to attend.

Her Majesty’s death will impact people across Bridport in many different ways and I urge anyone who is feeling particularly saddened to seek support from one of the many agencies who can provide a listening ear or advice.

God Save the King