How Manchester will pay its respects to the Queen as period of mourning begins

A state of mourning has officially begun across the UK today following the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

Queen Elizabeth passed away at the age of ninety-six at Balmoral Castle on September 8th, marking an end to her historical seventy-year reign on the throne.

Since Buckingham Palace’s announcement of the Queen’s passing, several royal protocols have already taken place, including her son becoming King Charles III, a speech by newly-elected Prime Minister Liz Truss and tributes from leaders across the globe.

And while a number of tributes and events are scheduled to take place across the country today, Manchester City Council has announced its own schedule of accolades in Her Majesty’s memory.

Council bosses have confirmed that St Ann’s Square will stand as the focal point for tributes in the city. 

They said in a statement: “Residents may wish to lay flowers to mark Her Majesty’s death. You can lay flowers at St Ann’s Square.

“We would ask anyone laying floral tributes to remove any plastic/cellophane wrappings and anything that is non-biodegradable. This will ensure that when collected, all of the flowers can be composted.”

The flag at Manchester Central Library has also been lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect. The flag will remain in this position up until 8am the day after the State Funeral.

Additionally, the Queen’s Books of Condolence has opened at the library, with visitors welcome to visit from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Sunday until the day following the funeral.

Manchester’s Finest Group

King Charles is expected to address the nation in a televised speech this evening, where he will pay tribute to his mother and pledge to serve as head of state.

Churches across the country have been urged to toll their bells, with the Church of England sending out guidance to parishes, chapels and cathedrals encouraging them to open for prayer or special services.

The full list of events taking place in memory of HM The Queen:

• A period of national mourning has begun today, and will be observed until seven days after Her Majesty’s funeral.
• Five days after her death, the Queen’s coffin will make the mile-long journey from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall. 
• King Charles and his Queen Consort Camilla will return to London from Balmoral today.
• His Majesty is expected to address the nation in a televised speech.
• Prime Minister Liz Truss and other senior ministers will attend a public service of remembrance at St Paul’s Cathedral in central London today.
• King Charles will meet the Earl Marshal, who is in charge of the Queen’s funeral, to approve the schedule for the coming days.