The death of Queen Elizabeth II - 14th September 2022

Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday 8th September. She was 96. She died in Scotland, at Balmoral.

Early on Thursday afternoon, her family went to Balmoral. They knew the Queen was very ill. Her family wanted to be with her.

British people soon heard the sad news.

Rachael Carter-Eagleton: "I had some messages all day, like, and everyone was saying it's going to happen in the news and everything. And I just felt compelled. I needed to get to Buckingham Palace."

In the evening, people started going to Buckingham Palace in London. They wanted to show their love for the Queen.

The next day, people started leaving flowers. They left them at the Queen's homes.

The Queen's son Charles is now in her place. He returned to London with his wife, Camilla. He spoke to the people.

King Charles: "I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of us. She combined these qualities with warmth, humour, and an unerring ability always to see the best in people."

He became King Charles III on Saturday. But the change is difficult for lots of people. The idea of a king is strange.

Marie: "You know, it- it's- it really feels quite difficult to say King Charles and not be celebrating our Queen. And I think, as I said, he's got really big boots to fill. But I think he's had such an amazing role model. And he's been able to watch her for a very long time doing a brilliant job. So I think he's had the best role model to follow."

In 2023, people will celebrate the new king.

But for now, everyone's thinking of their Queen. Her funeral will be on 19th September.