ALL at South Somerset District Council are deeply saddened by the news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen who was much respected, and very much loved.

Chairman of South Somerset District Council Cllr Paul Maxwell said: “It was with deep and profound sadness that I learned of the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

“She was an inspiration and an example to us all. She embodied and personified all the very best qualities, of honesty, decency, integrity, humility and a tireless devotion to public service.

“She touched, not only the lives of countless people in our own country, but many millions across the world. She was deeply and widely respected by world leaders of all political and religious persuasions. She was able to bring people together by her considerable compassion and understanding.

“In an ever changing world, she was stability, certainty and reassurance. She gave us all hope.

The flag outside the Council Offices, Brympton Way and Yeovil Country Park has been lowered to half-mast to offer our respects during this mourning period following all national protocols.

The council has said: "A book of condolences will be available for the public at our Customer Connect office, Petters Way, Yeovil. The office will be open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday.

"An e-book of condolences has also been made available by Buckingham Palace online at the following link: https://www.royal.uk/send-message-condolence."

There is a designated area for floral tributes at Yeovil Country Park, which will be signposted upon arrival.

"Please take care if lighting candle tributes, especially around flammable materials. We politely ask that you consider the environment when choosing tributes, for example avoiding non-recyclable plastic items."

Parking will be free at Goldenstones car park in Yeovil during the period of national mourning.

The first Local Proclamation will take place the following day on Sunday September 11 in Taunton. It will be read out by the High Sheriff of Somerset, Jennifer Duke, in front of the Market House in Taunton town centre, at 1pm.

This will be followed by South Somerset District Council’s Reading of the Proclamation at 4pm on Sunday September 11 at Yeovil Country Park, near Ninesprings Café which the public are also invited to attend. Please do allow sufficient time to arrive ahead of the start time, mindful of potential delays with traffic and busy car parks in the area.

The following web page will be updated with the latest information - https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/news/2022/9/her-majesty-the-queen-elizabeth-ii-1926-2022/