Political leaders in Hertsmere have been paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her death at the age of 96.

Britain’s longest-reigning monarch passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday afternoon, the Royal Family said.

The nation is now in a period of mourning as people reflect, remember and pay tribute to Her Majesty, who served the country on the throne for 70 years.

The mayor of Hertsmere expressed his sadness following the news.

Cllr John Graham said: “The councillors and officers of Hertsmere Borough Council are deeply saddened at the news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. 
 
“This year’s Platinum jubilee clearly demonstrated the depth of feeling and high esteem in which Her Majesty was held.

“I know that our sadness at this time is shared by people across the borough as we remember with affection and gratitude the lifetime of service given by our longest reigning monarch.”

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Council leader Morris Bright, who last night recalled a moment he met the Queen while working in Parliament during the 1990s, posted a photo of the Queen alongside her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

The leader of the Hertsmere Conservative group accompanied the photo with the words: “Together again. God Bless the Queen and her memory. May she rest in peace. Thank you for a life of service to our Country. “

Conservative MP Oliver Dowden posted: "We all mourn the loss of our beloved late sovereign Queen Elizabeth. God Save the King."

Cllr Jeremy Newmark, leader of the Hertsmere Labour group, posted on his Facebook page: “We give thanks for the Queen’s lifetime of dedication and leadership. Our thoughts are with her family - we are keenly aware that there is a family in mourning at this time.

“We have suspended all meetings, political campaigning until further notice. God save the King.”

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The Hertsmere Liberal Democrats shared a post by their national party, which described the Queen as a “great monarch who served our country faithfully all her life”, and that she “represented duty and courage, warmth and compassion”.

Hertsmere Borough Council has confirmed a book of condolence will be opened at its offices in Borehamwood, providing an opportunity for the public to visit and write their thoughts and reflections.  

Further information will be provided by the council as soon as it is available.