Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022

The death of Queen Elizabeth II was announced at 6.30pm on Thursday 8th September after the head of state, 96, died quietly at Balmoral, her palace in Scotland.

News of her ill health had quickly spread that afternoon and her close family travelled immediately to the castle, to be at the Queen's side. Meanwhile, the British public waited nervously.

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."

As night fell, crowds continued to collect at the palace gates, as a sign of respect for their much-loved queen. Just three months earlier, Queen Elizabeth had celebrated 70 years in her role.

The following day, loud gunshots rang out across the country and the public laid flowers to show their respect. On Elizabeth II's death, her eldest child, Charles, became head of state. On arriving back in London with his wife Camilla, he took part in a television broadcast.

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."

Charles has already received his new title, King Charles III but after having the Queen for seventy years, such a huge change may be hard to accept.

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."

Charles' coronation, the ceremony when he'll officially become king, will be in 2023. Meanwhile, the people's thoughts are with their Queen. Flags will be lowered until after her funeral on 19th September.

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