Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, has died.
Prince Charles, heir to the throne since the age of three, is now king, and will be officially proclaimed at St James’s Palace in London as soon as practically possible.
Flags on landmark buildings in Britain and across the Commonwealth were being lowered to half mast as a period of official mourning was announced.
As Queen of the UK and 15 other realms, and head of the 54-nation Commonwealth, Elizabeth II was easily the world’s most recognisable head of state during an extraordinarily long reign.
Coming to the throne at the age of 25, she successfully steered the monarchy through many squalls during decades of turbulent change, with her personal popularity providing ballast during the institution’s more difficult times.
Fifteen prime ministers served her, attesting to her extraordinary knowledge, experience of world affairs and mastery of political neutrality.
There were undoubted low points, but the mass outpouring of affection demonstrated on her silver, golden and diamond jubilees testified to the special place she held in the nation’s heart.
And she regarded her role as a life-long duty.
In her silver jubilee message in 1977, the Queen said: “When I was 21, I pledged my life to the service of our people, and asked for God’s help to make that vow. Although that vow was made in my salad days, when I was green in judgment, I do not regret nor retract one word of it.”
The official plans for her death, codenamed London Bridge, will now be activated.
The nation and other countries of which she was Head of State will enter a 10-day period of mourning.
Details of her state funeral, accorded to monarchs, will be announced in due course, after being officially signed off by the king.
Tradition dictates that the framed formal announcement of her death is affixed to the railings at Buckingham Palace.
Ceremonial gun salutes will be fired as a mark of respect as royal residences open to the public will close.
