As it happened: King Charles and Royal family hold vigil for the late Queen at St Giles's Cathedral

King Charles III and other members of the royal family hold a vigil at St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, in honour of Queen Elizabeth II -  Jane Barlow
King Charles III and other members of the royal family hold a vigil at St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, in honour of Queen Elizabeth II - Jane Barlow

King Charles III on Monday led his siblings as they kept a vigil to their late mother at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh.

The monarch, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward bowed their heads with their backs to the late Queen's coffin in a process called the Vigil of the Princes.

Members of the public filed past to pay their respects to the late Queen during the ceremony.

Thousands of mourners have been lining up to walk around her coffin as she lies in state at the church in the Scottish capital.

Earlier in the day,  the Queen's children walked behind the coffin of their mother through the streets of Edinburgh.

Large crowds gathered along the Royal Mile and St Giles's Cathedral, where mourners will be allowed to file past the late Queen's coffin on Monday evening until 3pm on Tuesday.


09:02 PM

To sum up

King Charles III has today taken part in the procession of his mother's coffin from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles's Cathedral, where she will lie in state until about 3pm on Tuesday.

The monarch been hosted by the parliament in Westminster and Edinburgh and given speeches to both legislatures, before ending the day leading his siblings, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward to perform the Vigil of the Princes by their mother's coffin at the church.

Thousands of mourners lined the Royal Mile to watch the procession, many waiting hours to file past the coffin at the church in the evening.


08:58 PM

Queen's processional route in London

The ceremonial procession will start at Buckingham Palace at 2.22pm on Wednesday and transport the Queen's coffin to Westminster Hall in the Houses of Parliament, where the Lying-in-State will begin.

It will proceed along The Mall, Horse Guards Road, across Horse Guards Parade and onto Whitehall to Parliament Square and into the Palace of Westminster.

Recommended public viewing areas are in the Green Park side of The Mall; St James’s Park side of The Mall and Horse Guards Road; Horse Guards Parade ground; and Whitehall (West), Parliament Street (West), and Great George Street. They will open at 11am on Wednesday and will have limited capacity.

You can also watch the Lying-in-State procession at the screening site in Hyde Park, where the ceremonial procession will be shown on large screens.

Tents and camping equipment, barbecues and alcohol are not allowed in the viewing areas or screening site.


08:38 PM

The Queen's route as she leaves Scotland for the last time revealed

Details of the route the Queen's coffin will take as it leaves Scotland for the last time have been revealed.

Members of the public will be able to process past the Queen's coffin as she lies in state at St Giles's Cathedral until about 3pm on Tuesday.

The Queen will then leave, along Lawnmarket to Johnston Terrace and then on to Castle Terrace and Lothian Road.

From there it will travel along Queensferry Street, Dean Bridge, Queensferry Road, Maybury Road and then Turnhouse Road, before arriving at Edinburgh Airport.

The Scottish Government has urged people to work from home if possible, and said that those not wishing to pay their respects in person should avoid any non-essential travel.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "This will be an extremely busy time in Edinburgh as members of the public come to pay their final respects.

"In light of this, we respectfully ask people to avoid non-essential travel if possible."

Mr Swinney urged mourners to dress for the weather and heed the latest travel advice.


08:09 PM

Members of the public walk past the King holding the vigil

King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Andrew hold a vigil for their late mother at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh - PA
King Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Andrew hold a vigil for their late mother at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh - PA

07:58 PM

Vigil ends with second of three foot taps by the late Queen's children

The King's Bodyguards for Scotland will now continue to hold the vigil for the late Queen's coffin at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh until it is flown to London tomorrow.


07:57 PM

Pictures of the Vigil of the Princes

The Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
The Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
Princess Anne performs at the Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
Princess Anne performs at the Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
The Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
The Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
The Queen's children walk to the late monarch's coffin to perform the Vigil of the Princes - Sky News
The Queen's children walk to the late monarch's coffin to perform the Vigil of the Princes - Sky News

07:48 PM

The Vigil of the Princes begins

Led by the King, the Queen's four children walk up St Giles's Cathedral to make their vigil to their mother's coffin.

Princess Anne and Prince Edward remained in their military uniforms from this morning's service at the cathedral in the Scottish capital, where Queen Elizabeth will lie in state until she is flown to London tomorrow.

With Prince Andrew, they have bowed their heads with their backs facing the coffin.


07:45 PM

King Charles III arrives at St Giles's Cathedral

The monarch and his siblings are to hold a vigil to their late mother, as she lies in state at the cathedral.

It was expected to start at 7.20pm but the King was held up at the Scottish parliament.


07:39 PM

William and Kate will be at Buckingham Palace when Queen's coffin arrives

The Prince and Princess of Wales will also be at Buckingham Palace when the Queen's coffin arrives on Tuesday.

The receiving of the coffin will be led by the King and Queen Consort as it arrives at the late Queen's official royal headquarters in London.

It is being accompanied back from Scotland on an RAF C17 aircraft by the Princess Royal and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.

The Queen's coffin will rest in the Bow Room at Buckingham Palace overnight, before a procession to the lying in state on Wednesday.


07:31 PM

King Charles III and his siblings about to make a vigil at St Giles's Cathedral

King Charles III and his siblings are about to hold a vigil for their late mother at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh, where she is lying in state.

He'll stand by one corner of the raised platform - or catafalque - that her coffin is resting on. His siblings are expected to position themselves at the other three.

The process is called the Vigil of the Princes and has only been performed once - at the funeral of the Queen Mother in 2002 -  since it was first carried out in 1936 when King Edward VIII and his three brothers, Princes Albert, Henry and George, stood by the coffin of their late father, King George V.


07:16 PM

King Charles III signs visitors' book at Holyrood as portrait of the Queen looks on

The King and his Queen consort have signed the visitors' book to the Scottish parliament alongside a portrait of a smiling Queen, commissioned by the parliament as part of its tenth anniversary celebrations.

They will now be transported to St Giles's Cathedral for a vigil service, where his mother lies in state.


07:03 PM

King Charles III tireless as he smiles with members of Scottish parliament

Despite a long day of seven engagements  starting at Westminster before being flown to Edinburgh, King Charles III has shown little signs of exhaustion tonight as he takes the time to speak to smiling members of the Scottish Parliament before attending a vigil at St Giles' Cathedral where his mother lies in state.


06:57 PM

King Charles at Holyrood

King Charles III during an audience with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Peter Byrne/PA
King Charles III during an audience with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Peter Byrne/PA
King Charles III and the Queen Consort during a visit to the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood - Andrew Milligan/PA
King Charles III and the Queen Consort during a visit to the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood - Andrew Milligan/PA
King Charles III during an audience with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Peter Byrne/PA
King Charles III during an audience with the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Peter Byrne/PA

06:51 PM

'I'm paying respects to my old boss' veteran was first in the Edinburgh queue

Armed forces veteran George Higgins has waited some 12 hours to pay his respects to the Queen in Edinburgh today.

The worker at the Royal Infirmany hospital in the Scottish capital was the first to join the queue at 6.45am.

He told Sky News: "This is happening in my city.

"She's lying in St Giles and I wouldn't miss it for the world.

"I have to go and pay my respects to my old boss."


06:45 PM

'Disappointment' Queen's cortege didn't pass through Perth

The Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross Stephen Leckie Esq told Sky News: "Of course we were and especially with Perth as the Stone of Destiny, Stone of Scone as we call it more locally but of course on the other hand we had a six hour drive down, so that's fair, we had to understand that."

He added of the King: "He's just the most amazing company, lovely gentleman to speak to, oozing charm, wit, just like his mother."

The Stone of Destiny is an ancient symbol of Scotland's monarchy, used for centuries in the inauguration of its kings.

It is to be moved from Edinburgh Castle to London for King Charles III's coronation and is set to be housed in Perth's new museum which is due to open in 2024.

It was used in the inauguration of Scottish kings for centuries, was seized by King Edward I and built into a throne at Westminster Abbey in 1296, and was returned to Scotland in 1996.


06:30 PM

Public solemnly filing past the Queen's coffin at St Giles's Cathedral

After waiting for hours, mourners have started paying their respects to the Queen, walking past her coffin at St Giles's Cathedral in Edinburgh.


06:27 PM

Watch the the King and family march behind the Queen's coffin in Edinburgh


06:24 PM

Queen Consort wore the diamond thistle brooch gifted to her by the Queen

The Queen Consort wore a diamond thistle brooch gifted to her by the late Queen in a poignant tribute to Elizabeth II.

Camilla choose the heirloom - a nod to the Scottish national flower - for her mourning outfit as she attend the service of thanksgiving at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh on Monday.

The Queen gave the glittering piece, which depicts two thistles, to her daughter-in-law.

It is believed to have belonged to the Queen Mother, and has been worn by Camilla on a number of occasions, particularly for visits to Scotland.


06:20 PM

King Charles III quotes Robert Burns as he pays tribute to Queen

King Charles III borrowed the words of the great Scottish poet Robert Burns to describe his mother, The Queen.

He told the Scottish Parliament: "If I might paraphrase the words of the great Robert Burns, my dear mother was 'The friend of man, the friend of truth; The friend of Age, and guide of Youth: Few hearts like his with virtue warm'd, Few heads with knowledge so inform'd'."


06:17 PM

King Charles III addresses Scottish Parliament

Responding to a motion of condolence tabled in Holyrood by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, King Charles III said: "I know that the Scottish Parliament and the people of Scotland share with me a profound sense of grief at the death of my beloved mother."


06:14 PM

Shops will shut for Queen's funeral

Supermarkets chains and high street retailers have said they will shut next Monday due to the Queen's funeral.

Grocery giants Sainsbury's and Aldi have become the latest retailers to tell shoppers they will keep stores shut on September 19, which has been confirmed as a bank holiday as the Queen's state funeral takes place.

Primark and John Lewis confirmed closure plans earlier on Monday.

Sainsbury's said it will shut its main supermarkets and Argos shops on the day of the funeral, but said will keep convenience shops and petrol filling stations open during the evening.

A spokeswoman for the retailers said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.


06:13 PM

The Fijian soldier selected to be a pallbearer for the Queen

A Fijiian soldier serving in the Royal Regiment of Scotland was selected as a pallbearer for Queen Elizabeth II, writes the Telegraph's Max Stephens.

Peni Vuiyale Tubuna from Baklava Company, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, was only 21 years old when he was chosen for the honour.

Photographs of the young Fijian spread across the world after he was seen carrying the coffin into Edinburgh’s Holyrood Palace on Sunday.

The soldier, who grew up in the village of Vutia enlisted in the British Army the day after his 18th birthday, his family told the Telegraph.

His uncle Iveri Vukuqaqa, 44, who completed two tours of Afghanistan with The Rifles regiment, said: “I saw a fraction of his shoulder on the TV and I said ‘that’s him that’s Peni’.

“The first reaction was gobsmacked. Many of us, my cousins and uncles have poured our lives into the army and still haven’t reached the pinnacle of what he has.

“He has done everyone proud, not only us, he has made the whole Fiji community proud. “We have all managed to stand up a bit taller because of the achievement he has made.”


06:09 PM

Nicola Sturgeon shares 'tense moment' with Queen at Balmoral

Tabling a motion of condolence, the Scottish First Minister said: "I did however experience one rather tense moment in Balmoral, my husband and I were with the Queen before dinner when the drawing room light started to flicker.

"To my great alarm, he was, after all, in the presence of Her Majesty, my husband suddenly leapt up and darted across the room: Peter had spotted the cause of the flickering light - one of the Queen's young Corgis, a beautiful pup called Sandy was eating through a lamp switch.

"Thankfully tragedy was averted and Sandy emerged unscathed, but not before a stern ticking off by his mistress.

"I deeply valued the time I spent alone with The Queen: her words of wisdom, counsel and humour will stay in my heart for the rest of my life."

She said Scotland "stood ready" to support King Charles III, adding: "Queen Elizabeth, Queen of Scots, we are grateful for her life, may she now rest in peace."


05:54 PM

Tributes to the "Queen of Scots" at the Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament's presiding officer Alison Johnstone MSP has paid tribute to the "Queen of Scots" and expressed condolences to the King and the Royal Family over her passing.

She said: "In her we had indeed a true friend and supporter with us, in each step from our first opening ceremony in 1999.

"In my role representing the parliament I was privilieged to enjoy two private audiences with her majesty... and I very much valued her insight and wise counsel."

A two minute silence will be held.


05:45 PM

King Charles III seen laughing with party leaders at Scottish Parliament

The King shared a laugh with party leaders as they were presented to him at the Scottish Parliament.


05:43 PM

King Charles III arrives at Scottish Parliament

The King and his Queen Consort have been welcomed to the Scottish Parliament.

Party leaders will be presented to them in the garden room.

The monarch will receive a motion of condolence, tabled by the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.


05:42 PM

Two more Premier League games called off

Chelsea vs Liverpool and Man Utd v Leeds's weekend clashes have both been postponed "due to events surrounding The Queen’s funeral" and that there was "no other option", the Premier League has said.

"The decision comes after discussion with the Metropolitan Police and UEFA following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Kick-off remains at 8pm," a club statement read.

"We will update supporters on Sunday's fixture with Liverpool as soon as we possibly can."

Chelsea's Champions League match with Red Bull Salzburg is to go ahead as planned on Wednesday night.


05:32 PM

Former First Ministers arrive to hear King Charles at Holyroodhouse

Former First Ministers and Scottish Parliament presiding officers have arrived in the public gallery to hear the special sitting with the King and Queen Consort.

They include Alex Salmond and Lord Steel of Aikwood, the former Liberal leader, writes Simon Johnson, the Telegraph's Scottish Political Editor.

King Charles III earlier arrived at his official residence for an ancient ceremony at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, marking his first official engagement as King of Scotland.

Upon his arrival, the King inspected the Guard of Honour and was welcomed to Edinburgh by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, where he was symbolically handed the keys to the city.


05:28 PM

Hundreds about to be let in St Giles' Cathedral

Hundreds of people queuing outside St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh are about to be let in for a vigil for the late Queen.

Some people have been in line since 7am for the service which starts at 7.20pm.

Well-wishers will shortly be led through a security tent to be searched before heading into the cathedral to pay their respects to the late monarch.


05:27 PM

Queen's children's uniforms and medals at St Giles' Cathedral service

The King: Field Marshal’s Frock Coat with Star & Ribband of the Order of the Thistle and the Baton of a Field Marshal.

The King also wore the Order of Merit neck decoration Amongst his medals, the King wore a Queen's Service Order medal, a Coronation medal, Silver, Golden, Diamond and Platinum medals and a Naval Long Service Good Conduct medal.

The King also wore a New Zealand Commemorative medal, a New Zealand Armed Forces Award and a Canadian Forces Decoration.

The Princess Royal: Full Dress of an Admiral with Star & Ribband of the Order of the Thistle. Alongside the Jubilee medals, the Princess Royal wore a Queen's Service Order, a Coronation medal, a Long Service and Good Conduct medal, a Canadian Forces Decoration, an Order of St John Service medal and a New Zealand 1990 medal.

The Princess also displayed three decorations - the Most Notable Order of the Garter, the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle and the Royal Victorian Order.

The Duke of York: Morning coat with Star of the Order of the Garter.

The duke's medals included a South Atlantic Medal, Silver, Golden, Diamond and Platinum Jubilee medals and Royal Navy Long Service Medals with bars.

He also wore a Canadian Forces Decoration with bar and a New Zealand Commemoration medal.

The Earl of Wessex: No 1 Dress (Ceremonial) of the Royal Colonel of the Wessex Yeomanry with the Star & Ribband of the Order of the Garter.

The Earl of Wessex also donned all four Jubilee medals, alongside a New Zealand medal and a Canadian Forces medal.


05:15 PM

Boris Johnson said Queen was 'absolutely on it' two days before her death

Former PM Boris Johnson has told how the Queen had been "absolutely on it" in their final meeting just two days before her death.

The MP met the Queen in Balmoral to formally resign as prime minister to make way for Liz Truss on September 6.

Mr Johnson told the BBC: "In that audience she had been absolutely on it.

"It was quite extraordinary. She seemed very bright, very focused. Look, she was clearly not well..."


05:14 PM

Third in London queue to see Queen arrived with marmalade but no tent

With mourners warned of up to 12 hour waits to see the Queen lying in state at Westminter Abbey, the third person to join the queue by Lambeth Bridge has arrived with no tent, sleeping bag or coat.

Grace Gothard, from Mitcham in Surrey, has a Union flag draped around her neck and was carrying a cardboard cutout of the Queen and some marmalade.

She told reporters: "The Queen was everyone's mother, she protected the Commonwealth and made sure everyone is protected.

"I've been to royal events in the past, weddings and funerals, and I was so upset when I found out about this, so I wanted to see her coffin.

"I think Charles will be a good king, he has his mother's traits."

Hundreds of thousands are expected to file past Her Majesty's coffin for five days from Wednesday to her funeral on Monday September 19.


05:03 PM

Charles arrives at Holyroodhouse in first official engagement as King of Scotland

King Charles III has arrived at his official residence for an ancient ceremony at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, marking his first official engagement as King of Scotland.

Upon his arrival, the King inspected the Guard of Honour and was welcomed to Edinburgh by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, where he was symbolically handed the keys to the city.


04:58 PM

'Marked increase' in police at main railway stations

British Transport Police is boosting the number of officers at main railway stations in the run-up to the Queen's funeral, the force has said.

Assistant Chief Constable Sean O'Callaghan said the public can expect to see "a marked increase" in the number of uniformed officers on patrol on the transport network in London.

He said: "We know it's very important that people are able to travel in the coming days, as many seek to pay their respects and celebrate Her Majesty and her dedication to public service.

"We expect the rail network to become increasingly busy, especially at main transport hubs in London. People can expect to see a marked increase in highly visible patrols, with more officers on hand to support those travelling and to deter any criminality.


04:55 PM

Hotel prices soar ahead of Queen lying in state

London hotel prices are soaring ahead of the Queen lying in state and her funeral.

Hundreds of thousands of mourners are expected to pay their respects to her Majesty at Westminster Hall in Central London for four days from Wednesday.

Her funeral will then take place on Monday September 19.

Hotel prices are up to four times higher on Sunday - the night before the funeral - compared with a week later, analysis by the PA news agency found.

The cheapest room at Park Plaza County Hall - one of the closest hotels to Westminster Abbey - on Sunday night costs £1,299 compared with £269 seven days later.


04:45 PM

What were the Queen's children's wearing?

King Charles III, Princess Anne and Prince Andrew, Duke of York, follow the Royal Hearse - KAI PFAFFENBACH/ REUTERS
King Charles III, Princess Anne and Prince Andrew, Duke of York, follow the Royal Hearse - KAI PFAFFENBACH/ REUTERS

Apart of the Duke of York, all of her Majesty's children were in full ceremonial uniform during the service at St Giles' Cathedral.

Only Prince Andrew could be seen wearing a campaign medal (Falklands) with the rest of his siblings  with Jubilee medals and other non-service gongs.

King Charles III  wore a Field Marshal’s Frock Coat with Star & Ribband of the Order of the Thistle and the Baton of a Field Marshal.

Princess Anne, the Princess Royal was in Full Dress of an Admiral with Star & Ribband of the Order of the Thistle.

Prince Andrew wore a morning coat with Star of the Order of the Garter.

Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex had a No 1 Dress (Ceremonial) of the Royal Colonel of the Wessex Yeomanry with the Star & Ribband of the Order of the Garter.


04:25 PM

Prince Andrew heckler arrested for hurling abuse as royals walk behind Queen's coffin

A 22-year-old man has been arrested after hurling abuse at the Duke of York as he walked behind the coffin of his mother Queen Elizabeth, writes the Telegraph's Gareth Davies.

Prince Andrew, alongside his siblings King Charles, the Princess Royal and the Earl of Wessex, were walking behind the hearse through the streets of Edinburgh.

Thousands had lined the Royal Mile as the royal procession made its way to St Giles' Cathedral in the Scottish capital for a service of thanksgiving for Her Majesty.

For the full story and video click here.


04:21 PM

King to next meet First Minister and politicians at the Scottish Parliament

King Charles III has left St Giles' Cathedral where the public will be able to pay their respects to the Queen as she lies in state.

He will now meet the First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, and politicians at the Scottish Parliament.


04:16 PM

King and Queen Consort saluted and applauded as they leave St Giles'

The Royal Company of Archers salute the King and his Queen Consort as the leave the cathedral grounds in a black vehicle to applause from the crowds.


04:14 PM

King Charles III walking out of the cathedral

King Charles III and his siblings are leaving the cathedral as the service concludes.


04:11 PM

God Save the King is sung

The National Anthem is being sung at St Giles' Cathedral.


04:05 PM

Homily hears of how the Queen 'continued resolutely and cheerfully'

Giving the homily, the Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields told the congregation: "She was determined to see her work as a form of service to others, and she maintained that steady course until the end of her life.

"People who were in her company always felt that they were being listened to carefully and attentively and with compassion.

"She possessed a sharp, intelligent mind with amazing recall, a kindly heart and a gentle sense of humour. She understood the breadth of world affairs and also cared about what happened to all of her people.

"And although sometimes buffeted by events around her, she continued resolutely and cheerfully to fulfil her responsibilities. And so today we give thanks not only for the length of her reign but for the qualities she displayed so steadfastly."


04:01 PM

Choir sings The Souls of the Righteous Are in the Hand of God

The choir has begun singing William Byrd's The Souls of the Righteous Are in the Hand of God.


03:59 PM

The Queen's love for Scotland was 'legendary'

At the beginning of the service, the Rev Calum MacLeod said: "And so we gather to bid Scotland's farewell to our late monarch, whose life of service to the nation and the world we celebrate. And whose love for Scotland was legendary."

He welcomed the royal family, "representatives of our nation's life" and "people whose lives were touched by the Queen in so many unforgettable ways".


03:55 PM

King and siblings watch The Crown of Scotland placed on the Queen's Coffin

(LtR) The Earl of Wessex, the Duke of York, King Charles III, the Queen Consort, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, look on as the Duke of Hamilton places the Crown of Scotland on the coffin  -  Aaron Chown/PA
(LtR) The Earl of Wessex, the Duke of York, King Charles III, the Queen Consort, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, look on as the Duke of Hamilton places the Crown of Scotland on the coffin - Aaron Chown/PA

03:53 PM

Heckler arrested on suspicion of breach of the peace

Police Scotland said a 22-year-old man had been arrested "in connection with a breach of the peace on the Royal Mile".

Footage appeared to show a man heckling the royal procession as it went past.


03:52 PM

'Do not let your hearts be troubled', the Bishop of Moray, Ross and Caithness

The Right Reverend Mark Strange's reading of John 14:1 started with: "Do not let your hearts be troubled."


03:40 PM

King Charles III looks solemn during procession

King Charles III looks solemn as the Royal Hearse makes it way from Holyrood Palace to St Giles Cathedral - Chris Strickland/Chris Strickland
King Charles III looks solemn as the Royal Hearse makes it way from Holyrood Palace to St Giles Cathedral - Chris Strickland/Chris Strickland

03:38 PM

Nicola Sturgeon reads Ecclesiastes 3:1-15

The Scottish First Minister gives a reading at the lectern at St Giles' Cathedral.

It includes the words: "There is a time for everything,  and a season for every activity under the heavens."


03:36 PM

Mourners hang of scaffolding to catch sight of the Queen's coffin

Thousands of people jammed into the bottom of the Royal Mile, with some perched on walls or hanging off scaffolding erected for TV cameras, as they waited for a sight of the late Queen’s coffin, writes Simon Johnson, the Telegraph's Scottish Political Editor.

The hearse passed within a couple of metres of where I stood, outside the Scottish Parliament, and the coffin covered with the Royal Standard of Scotland felt close enough to reach out and touch.

The late Queen's four children walked slowly behind, their faces drawn and grim. The King was nearest the public crowd, followed by the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex.

Only the Duke of York did not wear a military uniform after his fall from grace. Another car followed immediately behind containing the Queen Consort and the Countess of Wessex, their eyes fixed on the coffin ahead.

The moment was over in a few seconds, as the procession continued its journey to St Giles' Cathdral. However, it was a moment no one present would ever forget.


03:30 PM

Crowds outside St Giles' Cathedral played service

The service is being played to the queue waiting to pay their respects from loudspeakers, the Telegraph's Catherine Lough.

The choirs first hymn sounds out as people wait patiently for the first to be admitted at 5.30 pm.


03:26 PM

The Crown of Scotland is placed on the coffin by the Duke of Hamilton

The Crown of Scotland is the crown that was used at the coronation of the monarchs of Scotland.

Along with The Sceptre and the Sword of State, the Scottish Crown Jewels are the oldest surviving royal regalia in the UK, the original English Crown Jewels being destroyed by Oliver Cromwell in the 17th century.


03:23 PM

Sea of floral tributes at Sandringham keeps growing

The sea of floral tributes at Sandringham continued to grow today as thousands more well-wishers paid their respects to the late Queen.

Mourners walked for 20 minutes from the estate's car park to lay down bouquets outside the imposing Norwich Gates entrance to the parkland around Sandringham House.

Others with mobility issues who could not walk by themselves were ferried to and from the display by estate staff driving ride-on buggies.

Queues of people waited to put down their blooms and take selfies on their mobile phones at the most picture-friendly spots beside the floral display.


03:21 PM

Choir sings Thou Wilt Keep Him in Perfect Peace

The choir at St Giles' Cathedral sings Thou Wilt Keep Him in Perfect Peace by Samuel Sebastian Wesley as Her Majesty's coffin is brought in with her children following behind.


03:19 PM

Heckler led away by police


03:17 PM

Her Majesty's hearse is being carried into St Giles' Cathedral

Mourners will be allowed to file past the late Queen's coffin at the cathedral in Edinburgh until 3pm tomorrow.

It will then be flown to London where it will lie in state at Westminster Abbey.


03:00 PM

Queen's children walk behind her coffin

King Charles III, the Princess Royal, Prince Andrew and the Earl of Wessex walk behind Queen Elizabeth II's coffin - Jon Super/PA
King Charles III, the Princess Royal, Prince Andrew and the Earl of Wessex walk behind Queen Elizabeth II's coffin - Jon Super/PA

02:57 PM

King Charles III's full day ceremonial uniform

The King is wearing full day ceremonial uniform with the rank of Field Marshal.

His  Majesty carries his Field Marshal Baton presented to him by The Queen when he  became Field Marshal in 2012, and bears the Order of Merit (neck  decoration) with the Thistle Star and Thistle Sash.


02:54 PM

Calls of 'God Bless the Queen'

One among the crowd has been calling out "God Bless the Queen" as the procession goes past.

Among the mourners are Helen Pringle,71 and her daughters Karen and Ashley from Glasgow, there to "pay respects to the Queen - it's a one in a lifetime occasion", writes the Telegraph's Catherine Lough.

Helen said: "This is the first time a monarch has died in Scotland since the 1500s, being part of history, but the main reason is to come and pay our respects to someone who has given a life of service to us".

"One of the things we've had to pick whether we want to be part of the crowd to see the procession on the mile, we had to kind of choose and we've chosen this to come on this avenue - it feels a bit more personal, it's part of history as well, it's a historic moment, as a community and a country," her daughter said.

They had also used the occasion to drop off a few provisions to their granddaughter who has started a history degree at the University.

They added they originally didn't know about the bands. "Its been interesting- it's been quite a long day but its moving quite quickly."

They said they felt the event would boost the union and also give Scottish tourism a boost too, given the footage of Balmoral appearing around the world.


02:51 PM

Mourners reflect the solemn atmosphere of the bearer party

Applause and smiles among mourners lining the Royal Mile seem to have made way for a solemn quiet.


02:46 PM

Applause as 21-gun salute fires from Edinburgh castle

The sound of applause can be heard as Princess Anne, King Charles III and Prince Andrew walk side by side behind the hearse.

A 21 gun salute has been firing from Edinburgh Castle.


02:42 PM

Thousands of mourners amass along the Royal Mile

Thousands of visitors have amassed along the Royal Mile hoping to catch a glimpse of Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin winding its way through the heart of Edinburgh, writes the Telegraph's Max Stephens, in Edinburgh.

The crowd stood twenty ranks deep in places, with police officers forced to close off roads and turn away visitors.

Veterans in full ceremonial regalia stood alongside young children and families in the afternoon sunshine.

Camera crews from all around the globe jostles with one another for the best position to try and capture the historic moment.


02:41 PM

Queen's hearse remains the same

The Queen's hearse is the same as the one that took from Balmoral to the palace.

A funeral director's sticker was removed from the vehicle during the previous trip.


02:39 PM

Crowds even more tightly packed than yesterday

The crowds are even more tightly packed than yesterday on the Royal Mile, just up from the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Thousands of people are jammed onto the pavement, with some perched on walls, as they wait for a sight of the late Queen’s coffin, accompanied by her four children.


02:39 PM

Guards of honour form up beside the hearse, the procession soon to make its way

The King's Bodyguard forms up on each side of the hearse,  as a quiet falls at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.


02:37 PM

Meghan pauses podcasts release

The Duchess of Sussex has paused the release of her Spotify podcast, Archetypes, for the duration of the mourning period for the Queen.

Three full episodes of the audio series have been released since its launch on August 23, featuring conversations with veteran tennis player Serena Williams, pop star Mariah Carey and actress and producer Mindy Kaling.

Meghan and Harry signed a lucrative deal with the audio streaming giant to host and produce podcasts, estimated to be worth around 25 million US dollars (£18 million), in late 2020.

A message on the podcast's Spotify page said: "New episodes of Archetypes will be paused during the official mourning period for Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II."


02:37 PM

King Charles III is seen in full uniform

King Charles III forms part of the Bearer Party, dressed in full uniform with The King’s Body Guard for Scotland (Royal Company of Archers).


02:35 PM

The procession begins - the national anthem plays

The procession taking Her Majesty’s coffin to St Giles’ Cathedral  where it will lie in state for 24 hours has left the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Her Majesty's coffin is draped with Royal Standard in Scotland, which  is used officially at Scottish royal residences, when the monarch is not in residence, and by representatives of the Crown, and dressed in a beautiful wreath of flowers.

It consists of white spray roses, freesias, button chrysanthemums, dried white heather from Balmoral. The wreath is also made up of spray erynhgium (thistle) - the national flower of Scotland, foliage, rosemary, hebe and pittosporum.


02:32 PM

The coffin is expected to come from the Throne room in minutes

Her Majesty's Coffin is expected to emerge from the Throne Room in the Palace of Holyroodhouse in a few minutes.


02:31 PM

Guards of Honour lining up outside the palace

The Guards of Honour can be seen lining up outside The Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Royal Regiment of Scotland provided the Guard of Honour and Bearer Party for Her Majesty The Queen's coffin. They will be accompanied by the Band of the Regiment with drums draped and muffled.

And the King's Body Guard for Scotland (Royal Company of Archers) will found an Escort Party.


02:22 PM

King Charles and Queen Consort arrive on the Royal Mile

King Charles III and the Queen Consort arrived on the Royal Mile in a black car to huge cheers and applause from the public.

The couple waved and smiled to the crowd, many of whom gasped as they saw who was in the vehicle.

“I can’t believe I just saw Camilla”, George West from Canada said as the car travelled past St Giles Cathedral.

The 25 year old said: “I am a proud loyalist of Canada and it was a special moment. I didn’t think I would see them at all. What a privilege.

“I’ll try and queue and see the Queen in state after but I know getting the wrist bands is proving difficult.”


02:15 PM

Attendees at St Giles to represent people across Scotland

The service at St Giles’ Cathedral to celebrate the life of Her Majesty The Queen will be attended by people from all areas of public life in Scotland, the Scottish Government has said.

Along with members of the Royal Family other attendees include Scotland’s First Minister, the Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament Alison Johnstone and other Scottish politicians, Lord Lieutenants of Scotland, council officials, members of the armed forces, war veterans, judiciary and consular officials.

Her Majesty was patron of a range of Scottish charities and among those invited to the service are representatives from Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, the Royal National MOD, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the Scottish Football Association, the Royal Scottish Forestry Society, the Faculty of Advocates (Scotland), the Royal Victoria Hospital and the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society.

The guest list also reflects The Queen’s interest in a wide range of organisations throughout her reign and includes people involved in the arts, sports, educational the emergency services, faith groups and the media.

Forces Children Scotland will also be represented, a charity close to The Queen’s heart which has benefited from Royal Patronage since 1852.

Queen Victoria was their first Royal Patron and her father, Edward Duke of Kent and Earl of Strathearn, was the charity’s Chairman and President. Her Majesty the Queen was Forces Children Scotland’s longest-serving patron.


02:03 PM

FA announce return of football

The Football Association thanked people for observing postponements, but that football will now return after a "period of reflection".


02:01 PM

London mourners could be 'target for terrorists', says ex-Met Police chief

Crowds gathering in London for the Queen's funeral could be a "target for terrorists", former Met Police chief superintendent Parm Sandhu has warned.

She told BBC Radio 4's World At One programme: "London could potentially be full. We are expecting to have people queuing for 12, 15 hours at a time just to file past the coffin, which is a real concern because crowds attract criminals".

She said it could be busier than it was for the 2012 Olympic Games or for the funerals of the Queen Mother and Diana, Princess of Wales.

"I don't ever remember London expecting to be full in this way, even with the Olympics," she said.

"The crowds themselves will be a target for terrorists. The funeral itself will be a target for terrorists".

She added: "All the services are going to be stretched and with the queues that are going be right across central London, you could have streets that are going to be quite difficult to walk down."


01:54 PM

Did you attend lying in state of King George, Churchill or Queen Mother?

Did you attend the lying in state of any of these historical figures?

  • 1952 - King George VI

  • 1953 - Queen Mary

  • 1965 - Sir Winston Churchill

If so, we'd love to hear from you.

Please get in touch with our correspondent Jack Hardy by emailing jack.hardy@telegraph.co.uk.


01:51 PM

No Prince or Wales nor Duke of Sussex in Edinburgh procession

The new Prince of Wales and his brother the Duke of Sussex will not take part in the procession that will follow the Queen's coffin as it is moved from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh's St Giles' Cathedral later on Monday.

The Queen's children will take the lead, with Charles joined by the Princess Royal, Earl of Wessex and Duke of York.

The royal siblings will walk in a line behind the hearse carrying their mother's coffin and a few steps behind will by Anne's husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.

Following in a car will be the Queen Consort and the Countess of Wessex.


01:50 PM

'No gripes or groans' from police about 12-hour shifts

Officers facing 12-hour shifts and cancelled leave as part of the mammoth policing operation following the Queen's death want to work and show their respect to the late monarch, the head of a staff association has said.

Ken Marsh, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, said officers in the force "to a man and woman" had affection for the Queen and there had been no "gripes or groans" about the efforts expected from them.

The biggest-ever policing operation undertaken by the Met is being staged as millions of visitors including foreign dignitaries converge in London in the wake of the Queen's death and the lead-up to her funeral.

Mr Marsh said: "It will be challenging, but the plan is very good, it's been in place for a long time.

"It's what we do, none of the officers are concerned about what's in front of us or are daunted by it because it's all laid down, it's all planned, it's all prepared.

"I don't think any officer is concerned by it and they're all prepared to do it because our sovereign is gone, who we actually swore allegiance to and serve as we do our new King, so they all want to do it.

"We haven't had any gripes or groans about what's asked of them or what's required of them because they all, to a man and woman, had affection for our Queen and want to be part of it, and want to show their respect in any way they can."


01:46 PM

Watch: Security guard's opera tribute brings people to tears


01:44 PM

Ceremony of the Keys underway

The King is in Edinburgh for the ceremony.


01:37 PM

Watch: King Charles III's historic speech to peers


01:36 PM

'Unprecedented travel demand' in London

London will experience "unprecedented travel demand" in the coming days as people visit the capital to pay their respects to the Queen, transport bosses warned.

Public transport users are being advised that the city will be "exceptionally busy" and they should expect Tube stations to temporarily close to avoid overcrowding.

Planning journeys in advance using the latest information "will be essential", according to a joint statement by Network Rail, Transport for London and industry body the Rail Delivery Group.

The organisations said: "As Her Majesty's coffin travels to London to lie in state at the Palace of Westminster, it is expected that we will see unprecedented travel demand in the capital, especially from Wednesday 14 September.

"Transport providers have well-developed plans with extra staff and services coming on-stream to help people get to where they need to be."

London Underground passengers are urged to avoid Green Park station "if possible" due to "high numbers of customers passing through".

It is the nearest station to Buckingham Palace, but other nearby options include Victoria, Piccadilly Circus and St James' Park.


01:31 PM

Arsenal game off due to policing resources

Thursday’s Europa League clash between Arsenal and PSV Eindhoven has been postponed “due to the severe limitations on police resources and organisational issues related to the ongoing events”, UEFA has announced.


01:29 PM

Government reshuffle paused until after mourning

The Government will continue with the remaining ministerial reshuffle once the period of mourning for the Queen comes to an end, Downing Street said.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman was asked if Liz Truss's reshuffle remained incomplete, following the death of the Queen.

"I think that the vast majority has been done. There are still a small number of appointments still to be done.

"Obviously they will be done in due course but outside of the mourning period."


01:28 PM

First person in London queue - Sri Lankan who moved to UK in 80s

The first person to begin queuing for the Queen's lying in state in London said she "really, really wanted to be part of it".

Vanessa Nathakumaran, 56, from Harrow, arrived at noon on Monday - more than 48 hours before the queue opens on Wednesday at 5pm.

She said she started admiring the royal family in her childhood in Sri Lanka before she moved to the UK in the 1980s.

Her great-uncle was knighted by King George VI and her daughter met the Queen as a air cadet, she said.

"I'm really proud of our family being involved in the time of the Queen's life."

Asked why she had arrived to queue so early, she said: "I really really want to be part of it."

She added of the Queen: "She has done a good service to our country."


01:25 PM

King and Queen arrive at Palace of Holyroodhouse

The King and Queen have arrived at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh ahead of a series of engagements in the city.

After getting out of a car, the monarch spent time meeting members of the public behind a barricade and shaking their hands.

He also received gifts of flowers from well-wishers ahead of attending a Ceremony of the Keys and inspecting the guard of honour.


12:59 PM

Sinn Fein: Queen fondly remembered by many around the world

Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill has told a special sitting of the Northern Ireland Assembly that the Queen's life and legacy will be "fondly remembered by many people around the world".

She said: "Everybody will agree that it was a mammoth achievement to have marked 70 years of dedicated public service to the British people when she celebrated her Platinum Jubilee earlier this year.

"Today I wish to record the value and respect I place on the significant contribution Queen Elizabeth made to the advancement of peace and reconciliation between the different traditions on our island, and between Ireland and Britain during the years of the peace process.

"It is appropriate that this is rightfully recognised in this chamber today.

"I recognise that she was a courageous and gracious leader."


12:58 PM

Cardiff Rugby fixture postponed because King is coming to Wales

Cardiff Rugby have announced their first United Rugby Championship (URC) fixture against Munster has been rescheduled and will now take place on Saturday, Sep 17.

In a statement, the club said: "The fixture had been scheduled to take place on Friday night but due to the visit of His Royal Highness King Charless III to the Welsh capital, the fixture has been postponed and rescheduled for the following day."

A URC statement said: “Originally due to take place on Friday night (19:35), significant logistical challenges have occurred due to the visit of HRH King Charles III and the Queen’s Consort to Cardiff on September 16.

“Broadcast facilities for both the host broadcaster (BBC Wales) and other TV facilities providers will be engaged in the coverage of the visit and the drain on available resources has resulted in the rescheduling of the game.

“The BKT United Rugby Championship would like to thank both Cardiff and Munster for their understanding in this matter which has occurred under very unique circumstances. It is also appreciated that BBC Wales made every effort to keep the fixture in its original date and time slot."


12:55 PM

Cyclists bemused as council closes bike rack during royal period of mourning

Cyclists were left bemused as a council closed a bike rack in Norwich city centre because of the royal period of mourning.

A sign on the rack, which was put in place by Norwich City Council, warned cyclists that their bicycles could be removed if they were left there between Friday, Sep 9 and Wednesday, Sep 21.

It read:

Photo - Jeremy Hutchinson
Photo - Jeremy Hutchinson

12:47 PM

Two women faint outside St Giles'

As temperatures rose throughout the day two elderly woman at the front of the crowd fainted within minutes of each other.

Alarmed members of the public raised the alarm and called for medics to come and assist after the pensioners collapsed.

Both women were taken away in wheelchairs having been given a blanket, water and oxygen.

Meanwhile, other crowd members tried to bribe flat owners on the street with food to let them into their apartments.

The two woman collapsed within a few metres of each other outside the entrance to St Giles Cathedral, where the crowd was at its deepest.

One woman fainted outside the Barbour shop and was kindly offered a tartan stool to sit on before paramedics took her away.


12:29 PM

King and Queen land at Edinburgh airport

The King and Queen have arrived at Edinburgh Airport ahead of engagements in Scotland including the procession of his mother’s coffin to St Giles’ Cathedral this afternoon.


12:26 PM

Royal Mile tightly packed as Scotland await King

Scotland is awaiting the return of the King. Our reporter Catherine Lough is there for us.

The crowds are very tightly packed around the Royal Mile awaiting the service. However, some expressed annoyance that without a wristband they will be unable to see the Queen lying at rest, which can only be obtained from queuing at the Meadows.

"They should have told us that before," one woman waiting in the crowd said.


12:20 PM

Commuters may want to 'change their working patterns'

Commuters may want to "change their working patterns accordingly" as London will be "extremely busy" for the Queen's lying in state, No 10 said.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "At this point we can't be more specific on numbers. We do expect it to be extremely busy.

"I think for the Queen Mother it was around 200,000 people (who attended), we expect (it) to be far more than that for this lying in state. But at this point, but we can't be more specific into exact numbers."

On whether commuters should work from home this week if they normally travel into the capital from outside London, he said some people "may wish to change their working patterns accordingly", but acknowledged "not everyone will have that ability".

Asked if there will be any facilities for people who physically cannot queue for 30 hours, he said: "Obviously we want everyone to be able to attend regardless of whether they have disabilities. Our focus is on ensuring they have the information needed to make the decision about what's right for them.

"There will be toilet facilities, there will be first aid available, there will be the ability for people obviously to go and use toilets and return to queues and things like that."


12:19 PM

Welsh rugby fixtures to return this weekend

Unlike in England, where fixtures went ahead, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) made the decision to postpone all senior rugby matches in the country in the days following the Queen's death.

Now, the union has said it expects fixtures this coming weekend will go ahead.

Any games scheduled for Monday, the day of the funeral, should be rearranged, the WRU said in a statement.


12:11 PM

People invited to 'mourn and reflect'

People will be invited to come together to "mourn and reflect on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II" during a minute's silence on Sunday, No 10 said.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "At 8pm on Sunday 18 September, the night before the state funeral, there will be a one-minute silence where the public are invited to come together and observe a national moment of reflection to mourn and reflect on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II.

"The silence can be marked privately at home on your own or with friends and neighbours, out on your doorstep or street with neighbours, or at any locally arranged community events and vigils.

"We encourage local community groups, clubs and other organisations to mark this moment of reflection. And if you are overseas, people are encouraged to mark the silence at their local time.

"The shared national moment of reflection is an opportunity for everyone across the UK to mark the death of Her Majesty and we will set out details of where the Prime Minister will mark it closer to that time."


12:10 PM

National minute's silence at 8pm Sunday

Members of the public are invited to observe a one-minute silence at 8pm on Sunday September 18 to remember the Queen, Downing Street said.


12:08 PM

Strict rules on Queen tributes imposed - and Paddington Bear is banned

Mourners have been told to stop leaving Paddington Bears and marmalade when they pay tribute to the late Queen.

A Paddington Bear teddy bear is pictured with floral tributes in Green Park - Stephane de Sakutin/AFP
A Paddington Bear teddy bear is pictured with floral tributes in Green Park - Stephane de Sakutin/AFP

As part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Queen Elizabeth II filmed a sketch with the popular bear, which featured their shared love of marmalade sandwiches.

The children's character's official Twitter account was one of millions to send a message of condolence on Thursday, saying: "Thank you ma'am, for everything."

The connection prompted dozens of people to leave soft toys and jars of marmalade, but The Royal Parks - the charity which manages 5,000 acres of royal parkland across London - has asked mourners to stop doing so.


12:07 PM

Scottish football to continue

Latest from the Scottish Football League:

Following confirmation of the postponement of all fixtures in the professional game across Scotland last weekend as a mark of respect for the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, we can confirm the intention for the professional game to resume as normal.


12:03 PM

London Symphony Orchestra concerts to continue this week

The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) announced its concerts in London this week will take place but will now begin with the National Anthem.

A tweet from its official account said: "We confirm that this week's LSO concerts at the Barbican on Wed 14, Thu 15 & Sun 18 will go ahead as planned, with no changes to the repertoire but with the addition of the National Anthem at the start of each concert. We look forward to welcoming everyone."


11:45 AM

Green Park fountain becomes impromptu shrine

Well-wishers have dropped flowers into the fountain in Green Park near Buckingham Palace to pay their respects to the Queen.

Flowers and teddy bears, including a stuffed corgi, continue to be laid at the foot of the fountain.

Sylvia Willcox, who laid flowers, remembers watching the Coronation on television when she was seven.

She told the PA news agency she wanted to come to the palace "to pay respects and to see everyone in the same frame of mind.

She said of the Queen, "we've always admired her and loved her".


11:38 AM

Prince Andrew will not wear uniform at ceremonial events

The Duke of York will not wear uniform at ceremonial events during the period of mourning for the Queen, except at the final vigil in Westminster Hall as a special mark of respect, sources said.

Working members of the royal family will wear military uniform when present at five ceremonial events during this period of mourning the Queen.

These are the Service of Thanksgiving at St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, the procession to Westminster Hall and service of prayer and reflection, the Vigil at Westminster Hall, the state funeral at Westminster Abbey and the Committal Service at St George's Chapel Windsor.

But as a non-working member of the royal family, the Duke of York will not wear uniform except as a special mark of respect for the Queen at the final vigil in Westminster Hall, sources said.


11:29 AM

Woman arrested in Edinburgh charged with breach of peace

A woman who was arrested during the accession proclamation for the new King in Edinburgh has been charged.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "A 22-year-old woman was arrested outside St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh on Sunday, September 11, 2022 in connection with a breach of the peace.

"She was charged and was released on an undertaking to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date."


11:22 AM

First full King's Guard Mount

The first full King's Guard Mount began its procession from Wellington Barracks towards Buckingham Palace.

The sound of drums and trumpets could be heard throughout Green Park as the Number 12 Company Irish Guards marched towards Buckingham Palace.

The guards carried a standard adorned with a black ribbon as they moved to take over from the Coldstream Guards.


11:21 AM

King Charles boards plane at RAF Northolt

The King is heading to Scotland.

He has boarded a plane in RAF Northolt, in west London.


11:20 AM

Scotland is mourning today, says Sturgeon

The First Minister stated: "This Parliament and this nation are in mourning today.

"At the heart of it all, of course, is the sense of loss felt by those who were closest to Her Majesty.

"Our thoughts are with the entire royal family - and we are honoured by the presence here, of His Majesty, King Charles III, and The Queen Consort."

Ms Sturgeon continued: "In an ever-changing world, especially in turbulent times, Her Majesty was the great constant - the anchor of our nation.

"Even towards the end, as her health declined, her genuine love of Scotland and profound sense of public service never faltered.

"She performed her duties with dedication and wisdom, setting an exceptional example to each and every one of us.

"We stand ready to support His Majesty as he continues his own life of service and builds on the extraordinary legacy of his beloved mother Queen Elizabeth - the Queen of Scots."


11:18 AM

Sturgeon: Queen was 'anchor of our nation'

Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to the Queen as the "anchor of our nation" ahead of a Motion of Condolence in the Scottish Parliament.

The Scottish First Minister said that in an "ever-changing world, especially in turbulent times" the Queen had been a "great constant".

She also spoke about the Queen's "genuine love of Scotland" and her "profound sense of public service", which Ms Sturgeon said "never faltered".

Her comments came ahead of tributes to Elizabeth II at a special sitting of the Scottish Parliament later on Monday.

All business there was suspended last week after it was announced on Thursday that she had died peacefully at Balmoral Castle.

King Charles III will be in Holyrood with his wife, the Queen, to hear tributes from Ms Sturgeon and the other party leaders in the Motion of Condolence - which is taking place after a service of prayer and reflection for the life of the Queen at the nearby St Giles' Cathedral.


11:18 AM

'We smile knowing you and grandpa are reunited,' says Prince Harry

Prince Harry has paid tribute to his grandmother, saying "we smile knowing that you and grandpa are reunited now, and both together in peace".

Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday at the age of 96 - 517 days after her "strength and stay" the late Duke of Edinburgh passed away on Apr 9, 2021.

In a statement released on the Archewell website, he thanked the late Queen for her "commitment to service", "sound advice" and "infectious smile".

He added: "Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings—from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my Commander-in-Chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great-grandchildren."


11:00 AM

'It's an opportunity for everybody to come and say their final goodbyes'

Here's the latest from our reporter Catherine Lough.

Coral, a Women's Royal Navy veteran from Ayshire who had come with her badges pinned to the lapels of her fleece and her purple naval tartan, said she could be outside St Giles "all night" to see the Queen lying at rest, as her Karrimor bag also contained a toothbrush, reflective thermal blankets and clean clothes.

In the group sitting on chairs, no-one had arrived together but the occasion had already made them feel like "one family," they said, sitting outside St Giles'.

"We arrived at 9 didn't we, but everybody started their journey at different times. This couple came from Shetland - they started at three, the lady over there came from Durham at half four," she said.

"Everybody's so respectful just looking out for each other and there's a real spirit of everybody being here to support each other as well," she said.

Karen, from Glasgow, said all they were missing was a "wee dram" if it got cold later.

"It should be a Dubonnet for her," said Coral.

"Although her Majesty sadly passed away it's an opportunity for everybody to come and say their final goodbyes to her."

Susan from Perth said she had arrived at quarter to nine and it was already "half a dozen deep already, but actually we're so near" - the group were right at the front of the street.


10:58 AM

Photographs show huge sea of flowers at Sandringham

Aerial photos taken this morning show the huge sea of flowers left by mourners at the Royal Sandringham Estate in Norfolk as people pay their respects to the Queen.

Drone pictures show thousands of bouquets in front of the Norwich gates after crowds flocked to the estate over the weekend.

Sandringham
Sandringham

There have been long queues over the last few days as mourners lined up to honour Her Majesty, who died on Thursday at the age of 96.

The Queen frequently stayed on the Sandringham estate and made her last visit in July, when she made daily trips to see her horses in the nearby stables.

The Sandringham Estate is now in a period of official mourning and all facilities at the estate will remain closed until further notice.

The Sandringham estate was owned privately by the Queen and inherited from her father.

She usually stayed there every winter until February 6, the anniversary of her father's death and the House is also used by other members of the Royal family.


10:49 AM

EFL football returns tomrorow

The EFL fixture programme will return as scheduled from Tuesday 13 September, with tributes to be paid to Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at grounds around the country.

A minute’s silence will be held before matches, with black armbands to be worn by participants, flags to be flown at half-mast and the National Anthem to be played in stadiums.

With a national policing plan now in operation, the League and Clubs will continue to work with forces in respect of any challenges that may emerge regarding policing of specific fixtures.

Consideration to individual circumstances will be made on a case-by-case basis, in line with standard match Safety Advisory Group (SAG) protocols.


10:48 AM

In full: King's speech

My Lords and Members of the House of Commons.

I am deeply grateful for the Addresses of Condolence by the House of Lords and the House of Commons, which so touchingly encompass what our late Sovereign, my beloved mother The Queen, meant to us all.  As Shakespeare says of the earlier Queen Elizabeth, she was “a pattern to all Princes living”.

As I stand before you today, I cannot help but feel the weight of history which surrounds us and which reminds us of the vital Parliamentary traditions to which Members of both Houses dedicate yourselves, with such personal commitment for the betterment of us all.

Parliament is the living and breathing instrument of our democracy.  That your traditions are ancient we see in the construction of this great Hall and the reminders of Mediaeval predecessors of the Office to which I have been called.  And the tangible connections to my darling late mother we see all around us; from the Fountain in New Palace Yard which commemorates The late Queen’s Silver Jubilee to the Sundial in Old Palace Yard for the Golden Jubilee, the magnificent Stained Glass Window before me for the Diamond Jubilee and, so poignantly and yet to be formally unveiled, your most generous gift to Her late Majesty to mark the unprecedented Platinum Jubilee which we celebrated only three months ago, with such joyful hearts.

The great bell of Big Ben – one of the most powerful symbols of our nation throughout the world and housed within the Elizabeth Tower also named for my mother’s Diamond Jubilee – will mark the passage of The late Queen’s progress from Buckingham Palace to this Parliament on Wednesday.

My Lords and Members of the House of Commons:

We gather today in remembrance of the remarkable span of The Queen’s dedicated service to her nations and peoples.  While very young, Her late Majesty pledged herself to serve her country and her people and to maintain the precious principles of constitutional government which lie at the heart of our nation.  This vow she kept with unsurpassed devotion.

She set an example of selfless duty which, with God’s help and your counsels, I am resolved faithfully to follow.


10:45 AM

King quotes Shakespeare

The King quoted William Shakespeare as he described his mother's legacy.

He told MPs and peers: "As Shakespeare says of the earlier Queen Elizabeth, she was 'a pattern to all princes living'."


10:44 AM

King and Queen leave Westminster Hall

At the end of the service, the King and Queen make their leave.

The King spoke at length to Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, before leaving in the royal Rolls Royce.


10:43 AM

'She set an example of selfless duty'

Closing his address, he said: "We gather today in remembrance of the remarkable span of the Queen's dedicated service to her nations an people.

"While very young, her late majesty pledged herself to serve her country and her people and to maintain the precious principals of constitutional government which lie at the heart of our nations.

"This vow she kept with unsurpassed devotion.

"She set example of selfless duty, and with God's help and your counsel, I am resolved faithfully to follow."


10:38 AM

King Charles: 'I cannot help but feel the weight of history that surrounds us'

King Charles is now addressing Westminster Hall.

He told the gathered guests: "I cannot help but feel the weight of history that surrounds us."

The monarch told the politicians that their work in the houses of Commons and Lords was "for the betterment of us all".

The King added: "Parliament is the living an breathing instrument of our democracy."


10:35 AM

'To be a king and wear a crown is more to them that see it, than them who bear it'

Sir Lindsay Hoyle pointed out that in his first address to the nation, King Charles III recognised his life was about to change with the responsibility of leading the monarchy.

The Commons speaker said: "To be a king and wear a crown is more to them that see it, than them who bear it."

He said he knew that King Charles would bear those responsibilities with the "fortitude and dignity" demonstrated by his mother the late Queen.


10:31 AM

Sir Lindsay Hoyle: 'Deep as we know our grief is, we know yours is deeper'

Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle is now speaking.

He said of the death of the Queen: "This is a loss that is felt around the world.

"It is a loss to all of us, but we know most of all it is a loss to you, your Majesty and the Royal family.

"Newspapers have been filled with photographs of the late Queen, the most touching have been the glimpses into family life usually sheltered from public life.

"Deep as we know our grief is, we know yours is deeper."


10:28 AM

'We are proud and indeed humbled to welcome you as our King'

Lord McFall said: "We and future generations will draw strength from her shining example," in respect of the late Queen.

He added: "Your Majesty, on behalf of all the members of  the House of Lords I pledge my loyalty to you, and wish you and Her Majesty the Queen Consort well" in the duties the King has now taken on.

The peer added: "We are proud and indeed humbled to welcome you as our King."


10:25 AM

'We, and the nation, closed our eyes to this inevitability'

Lord McFall has opened the proceedings.

He said: "I welcome you and the Queen consort on this solemn occasion."

The peer made a tribute to the late Queen, describing her as a "beloved" and "deeply missed mother" of the King.

The Queen was described as "joyous" and Lord Fall said we never thought her "long and inspiring leadership of deep, unparalleled devotion would ever end.

"We, and the nation, closed our eyes to this inevitability.

"But it has ended."


10:21 AM

King acknowledges guests

People bowed as the King and Queen made their way down Westminster Hall to the two thrones.

The King nodded back at them, and exchanged brief words.


10:19 AM

King and Queen arrive at Westminster Hall

The couple stood down from the Royal Rolls Royce and made their way into Westminster Hall to the sound of trumpets.


10:19 AM

Complete silence as guests await the King

More from Christopher Hope who is in Westminster Hall ready for the address by the King

Just after 10am, the huge audience of peers, MPs and Parliamentary staff fell silent as the King’s Bodyguard of the Yeoman of the Guard - Beefeaters - arrived and processed through the congregation. The only sound was the clicking of the Beefeaters’ boots on the ancient stone floor.

They were followed by the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms in helmets decorated with enormous white plumes of feathers, clutching what look like small axes.

There was complete silence. The only noise was the orders barked to the guard and the gentlemen at arms.

At 10.08am everyone stood as we awaited the Speakers’ procession.

Suddenly three were sharp wraps on the door at the east door halfway down the hall. Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Lord McFall, both former Labour MPs and now Speakers of both Houses of Parliament, processed to the front and up the steps of Westminster Hall.

All sat down. But no one spoke as we waited for the King.


10:15 AM

King Charles III on his way

The King and Queen have left Clarence House.

They are making the short trip down The Mall towards Westminster Hall.


10:14 AM

Speakers arrive

Lord McFall, the Lord Speaker, has just arrived in Westminster Hall as part of a parliamentary procession from the House of Lords.

A House of Commons procession, led by Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Commons Speaker, followed shortly after.


10:13 AM

Details emerging of special sitting in Scottish Parliament

The latest from our Scottish Political Editor Simon Johnson.

Here is the text of the motion for the special sitting of the Scottish Parliament today, which will be attended by the King and Queen:

That this Parliament expresses its deepest regret and grief at the death of Her Majesty The Queen; conveys its sincere condolences to His Majesty The King and other members of the Royal Family in their bereavement; affirms the great affection and esteem in which Her Majesty was held, and expresses gratitude for her life of exceptional public service and her long and close association with Scotland and the Scottish people.


10:09 AM

State trumpeters take post in south window balcony

The state trumpeters of the Household Cavalry took their post on the south window balcony of Westminster Hall to mark the beginning of the ceremony.

The King's Body Guard of the Yeomen of the Guard and the Honourable Corps of Gentleman at Arms then processed into Westminster Hall from the north door to take up their position.

The Lord Speaker's Procession and the Commons Speaker's Procession are to enter by the east door ahead of the arrival of the King and Queen Consort.


10:07 AM

Political figures arrive at Westminster Hall

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson awaits the arrival of the King - Ben Stansall/AFP
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson awaits the arrival of the King - Ben Stansall/AFP
Prime Minister Liz Truss arrives to attend the presentation of Addresses by both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, inside the Palace of Westminster - Ben Stansall/AFP
Prime Minister Liz Truss arrives to attend the presentation of Addresses by both Houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, inside the Palace of Westminster - Ben Stansall/AFP

10:03 AM

Women eating sardine sandwiches waiting to see service

A group of women on camping chairs eating sardine sandwiches said they had travelled from Glasgow at 6am hoping to see the service, writes our reporter Catherine Lough.

"Its worth it, she was a good Queen. We'll never see the likes again honestly. Charles will be great, she's trained him up well," said Betty Winning, a retired home support worker.

"He's a wee bit eccentric but that's fine. If he does as good as his mother he'll no go wrong. He's waited long enough," said Helen Gellis, a retired psychiatric nurse.

"He was only about three or four when she came to the throne," said Betty.

"In Glasgow yesterday we went and signed the book, the condolence book. I just put 'Thank you ma'am for everything you've done for this country. You've served your country right to the end', which she did. 'You'll be sadly missed, God bless' and I just put my name."

They said they went to the Platinum Jubilee in London and were asked, "why do you want to leave Britain".

Betty added: "Nicola doesn't speak for the whole of Scotland she only speaks for a cult. And that really riles me because people in England think we don't want the monarchy and I also put that yesterday in the Glasgow City Chambers - I'm proud to be Scottish but I'm also proud to be British, which I am.

"I don't want to separate from Britain. This country would be bankrupt. They all live in cloud cuckoo land."


09:58 AM

Truss and Starmer among those assembled in Westminster Hall

The Prime Minister Liz Truss and leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer were among those assembled in Westminster Hall.

They sat with other senior figures from the Commons to one side of the throne placed at the head of the hall.

Senior peers could be seen sat to the other side of the throne.


09:52 AM

Christopher Hope: 'The entire political class has gathered in Westminster'

Here's more from our Associate Editor (Politics) Christopher Hope.

The entire political class has gathered here in Westminster for the presentation of addresses by both Houses of Parliament.

All of the stands have been covered in brown wrap which copies the brown stone of Westminster Hall.

A smattering of black Alice bands among the women while there were rumours of MPs and peers that wearing top hats although they appear to have been removed.

Even Jeremy Corbyn - who swerved the Accession Council on Saturday even though he could attend as a Privy Councillor - has just arrived.

The Band of the Household Cavalry has just played a magnificent rendition of Londonderry Air.


09:43 AM

New Met chief: We've been preparing for 'massive challenge' for many, many years

New Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley told Sky News of preparations for the Queen's lying in state: "It's a massive challenge for the Metropolitan Police and for me personally, but we have been preparing for many, many years.

"There are some very diligent and determined people who have put a lot of effort into this, and indeed myself in my previous roles in the Metropolitan Police - five or six years ago I was involved in some of that planning and I have been involved in a review recently.

"But most of all I have a lot of trust and confidence in the fantastic police officers who are going to support this event and help make it safe.

"They have been working with colleagues from across Government and the Royal Household and others, as you would expect.

"We will have a safe event but we will be putting thousands of officers into this because of the level of security required and the millions of people who want to pay their respects."


09:20 AM

Queues for Westminster Hall to snake miles along the Thames

Security staff manning the queue route to Westminster Hall for the Queen's lying in state said that crowds are expected to swell ahead of Wednesday afternoon.

They said the queue is likely to snake for miles, all the way along the southside of the River Thames to Tower Bridge.

People will not be allowed to camp and will be given numbered wristbands to indicate their place in the queue so they are able to leave and come back, it is understood.

As of 9am on Tuesday, pedestrians have been walking freely up and down the route but it still appears fairly empty of people arriving early to queue.


09:10 AM

Duke of Sussex statement in full

In celebrating the life of my grandmother, Her Majesty The Queen—and in mourning her loss—we are all reminded of the guiding compass she was to so many in her commitment to service and duty.

She was globally admired and respected. Her unwavering grace and dignity remained true throughout her life and now her everlasting legacy.

Let us echo the words she spoke after the passing of her husband, Prince Philip, words which can bring comfort to all of us now: “Life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings.”

Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings—from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my Commander-in-Chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great-grandchildren.

I cherish these times shared with you, and the many other special moments in between. You are already sorely missed, not just by us, but by the world over.

And as it comes to first meetings, we now honour my father in his new role as King Charles III.

Thank you for your commitment to service. Thank you for your sound advice. Thank you for your infectious smile.

We, too, smile knowing that you and grandpa are reunited now, and both together in peace.


09:10 AM

New Met Commissioner: I pledge to let the world pay respects safely

Sir Mark Rowley has pledged to ensure people from across the world can safely pay their respects to the Queen ahead of and during her funeral, on his first day as head of the Metropolitan Police.

Sir Mark was sworn in as the new Commissioner on Monday morning, taking an oath, known as an attestation, in which he pledged allegiance to the King and swore to serve "with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality, upholding fundamental human rights and according equal respect to all people".

Speaking afterwards, he said: "As your new Commissioner, I have sworn an oath to serve with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality.

"In the next two weeks, I have two priorities. I will lead a Met that enables Londoners and visitors from all over the world to safely pay their respects to Her late Majesty The Queen.

"Second, as we continue to police local communities, we will begin the journey of reform to renew policing by consent.

"Through my leadership, I am determined to bring more trust, less crime and high standards, and build trust and confidence in our police service once more."


09:08 AM

Large queue of MPs and peers wait to get into Westminster Hall

Christopher Hope is queuing to get into Westminster Hall

Already large queues of peers and MPs has formed outside Westminster Hall ahead of the address by the King at 10.20am.

The scaffolding outside the entrance to Westminster Hall has been wrapped in decorated covers over the scaffolding which was erected after a piece of masonry fell onto the pavement.


09:06 AM

Crowds, camping chairs and St Giles' Cathedral

Crowds have begun to assemble in camping chairs outside the barricades near St Giles' in preparation to pay their respects to the Queen, writes Catherine Lough.

One couple from the Netherlands who were walking in Balmoral when they heard of the Queen's passing are now waiting to go in to the cathedral at 5pm to pay respects.

"She's a worldwide known figure and she's like the face of, the head of this country for 70 years," Anouck Wiggers and Martin Denambtoan, dentists aged 35 said.

They had brought sandwiches with them for the wait.

"Its such an important thing happening," Martin said.


08:57 AM

Prince Harry statement expected today

We are expecting a tribute from the Duke of Sussex today.

We'll bring it to you here as soon as we have it.


08:54 AM

Prince William and Harry’s reconciliation is just for mourning, not for life

Reunited in sorrow, it was the moment the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex put their differences aside in honour of their beloved “Grannie”.

Appearing alongside their wives, the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, for their first joint appearance since that Oprah Winfrey interview two years ago, it was the remarkable royal walkabout that was supposed to pave the road to reconciliation.

But with the spectre of Prince Harry’s tell-all memoirs hanging like a Sword of Damocles over the House of Windsor, a question mark remains over whether this is just a temporary truce or the beginnings of a more abiding amnesty.


08:36 AM

Paddington Bear and marmalade sandwiches - Britain's touching tributes to its witty Queen

It was one of the most memorable moments of Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee.

In a surprise sketch, Paddington Bear produces a marmalade sandwich and explains he always keeps one for emergencies.

“So do I,” the Queen responds as she fishes a sandwich from her handbag. "For later."

And now, in the days following the Queen’s death, Paddington Bear and marmalade sandwiches have come to symbolise the country’s affection for her.


08:31 AM

Davey: King's appearance in Westminster will be one of 'great sadness'

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said the King's appearance in Parliament on Monday will be a moment of "reflection" and "great sadness".

Charles and the Queen Consort will visit Westminster Hall where both Houses of Parliament will express their condolences to the new monarch and his wife, and the King will give his reply.

"It's a part of Westminster which is resplendent with history," Sir Ed told Sky News.

"I think we'll all be very proud - proud of our country, proud of our amazing monarchy.

"But it will also be a moment of reflection, as you said, and a moment of great sadness."


08:19 AM

Tube hit by power failure

The London Underground has been hit by a power failure as thousands of mourners are expected to descend on the capital to pay tribute to the late Queen.

Transport for London said the issue means there is no Piccadilly line service between Hyde Park Corner and Cockfosters.

There are "severe delays" on the rest of the line.

It has also been reported that the Victoria line is suspended because of power supply problems, with several stations closed.

We will update this story to keep you informed on how it might impact your travel.


08:10 AM

City of Edinburgh has 'done us proud'

Cammy Day said there has been an "outpouring" from people celebrating the Queen following her death.

Edinburgh City Council leader told BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme: "We saw yesterday as Her Majesty's cortege came into the city from the Forth Road Bridge pretty much all the way along there were people out from their communities, I suppose celebrating the commitment Her Majesty made to public life and to our city.

"A strong and long lasting relationship we've had with the Queen, and I think always will remember, and that was proven yesterday by the thousands of people who were out on the whole of the journey into the heart of the city.

"It's done us proud, the capital city and the people who have made the journey here to be with Her Majesty on her final journey and to welcome the new King to the city as we will do today is something we will all be immensely proud of."


07:55 AM

Edinburgh prepares for special send off

Edinburgh City Council leader Cammy Day told BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme that the city was expecting large crowds on Monday.

"We're expecting tens of thousands of people to be up and down the High Street as Her Majesty comes up to St Giles' and then onwards from there tomorrow," he said.

"Our advice to people is to get to the city centre as quickly and early as you can, use public transport because the city has diversions or road closures.

"We are looking forward to welcoming tens of thousands of people to give Her Majesty the send off that the city will give her."

Mr Day said the queue from St Giles' Cathedral could potentially spiral back as far as The Meadows as people wait to pay their respects.


07:44 AM

London prepares for the Queen's funeral

Preparations are underway in London for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II - Anadolu Agency
Preparations are underway in London for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II - Anadolu Agency

07:40 AM

Queen made an 'enormous contribution to New Zealand'

New Zealand will have a one-off bank holiday on September 26 to mark the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday.

"This, I hope, will be a chance to acknowledge a lifetime of service to New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II," Ms Ardern said.

"We need to acknowledge here (that) this is a one-in-70-year event. The Queen was our sovereign, our head of state.

"She made an enormous contribution to New Zealand through her public service. This marks a significant end to a chapter."

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks about a bank holiday on September 26 - AFP
New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks about a bank holiday on September 26 - AFP

A state memorial service will be held in the capital's Cathedral of St Paul on the same day.

Ms Ardern confirmed she will leave New Zealand on September 14 to attend the late Queen's funeral in London, immediately after which she will fly to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is also flying to London to attend the funeral.

On Sunday, Australia and New Zealand officially named King Charles III as monarch.

Both former British colonies have been independent for decades but retain the monarch as their head of state.


07:37 AM

A nation mourns a beloved Queen

Blower cartoon
Blower cartoon

Crowds 10 deep turned out in Edinburgh as the hearse carrying Queen Elizabeth II drove through the city, with some cheering, some throwing flowers and a few shedding tears in an outpouring of respect for the Queen.

People also lined the streets of towns and villages along the 180-mile route from her beloved Balmoral estate, where she died on Thursday aged 96 after seven decades on the throne.

In London alone, at least a million people are expected to visit the coffin of the late Queen.

The funeral itself is set to be watched around the world.


07:04 AM

Our front page


07:04 AM

Queen begins her ‘last great journey’

Military bearers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland carry the late Queen’s coffin into the Throne Room at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters/Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters
Military bearers from the Royal Regiment of Scotland carry the late Queen’s coffin into the Throne Room at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters/Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters

A blessed and glorious Queen laid to rest in a simple oak coffin. Draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, crowned with a modest white wreath of phlox and heather. Beautiful. Poignant. Shocking, writes Judith Woods.

Her subjects knew Elizabeth II was gone. For days, we had mourned her loss. But the sight of her mortal remains setting off on their "last great journey", as the King called it in his address to the nation on Friday, had an impact all its own.

In unforgettable scenes of pageantry and pomp the likes of which the nation and the world have never before seen, the body of Elizabeth II was brought, with reverence and ceremony and something far more powerful, from her much-loved estate in Balmoral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.

At the start of the day, beyond the public view, her coffin was carried aloft by Balmoral gamekeepers, covered by a banner and adorned with pale blooms from the estate, as the Queen’s piper played a mournful lament.

READ MORE: A Queen like no other begins her ‘last great journey’


06:52 AM

Australian PM rules out referendum on republic... for now

Australia’s prime minister has ruled out holding a referendum on the country becoming a republic any time soon, saying now is the time to mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, reports The Telegraph's Nick Squires.

Anthony Albanese said it was too early to tackle the “bigger questions about our constitution” and that now was instead a time to remember the late Queen and her devotion to Australia.

He is in favour of Australia ditching the monarchy.

Read the full story here.


06:48 AM

Bank holiday 'short notice' outrage

The Australian Prime Minister has faced backlash from the business and healthcare sector following the announcement of a one-off bank holiday to mark a national day of mourning for the late Queen.

Anthony Albanese announced on Sunday that Australia would observe a bank holiday on September 22 following the monarch's funeral on September 19.

The news quickly drew criticism from healthcare professionals who said the short notice would cause huge disruption to their sector where consultations and operations are arranged weeks, and sometimes months, in advance.

The Australian Medical Association president Steve Robson tweeted: "Operations and lots of patient consultations booked that day, at a time when access is difficult. Thanks for dropping this at short notice."


06:01 AM

Family and public to pay their respects

  • Queen Elizabeth II's coffin will be carried into St Giles’ Cathedral, where it will be topped with the Crown of Scotland, before a minister leads a service of "prayer and reflection" for the late Queen. Her coffin will remain there for 24 hours "to enable people of Scotland to pay their last respects", a palace official said.

  • King Charles and senior royals will mount a vigil beside the late Queen on Monday night, while soldiers from the Royal Company of Archers stay on guard.

  • The Queen will be flown to London on Tuesday by Royal Air Force jet to an airfield near London, accompanied by her daughter Princess Anne, and driven to Buckingham Palace.

  • On Wednesday, the royals will follow the coffin, carried atop a gun carriage, to Westminster Hall where it will lie in state until the day of the funeral.


05:48 AM

William and Harry’s reconciliation just for mourning

Reunited in sorrow, it was the moment the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex put their differences aside in honour of their beloved “Grannie”.

Appearing alongside their wives, the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, for their first joint appearance since that Oprah Winfrey interview two years ago, it was the remarkable royal walkabout that was supposed to pave the road to reconciliation.

But with the spectre of Prince Harry’s tell-all memoirs hanging like a Sword of Damocles over the House of Windsor, a question mark remains over whether this is just a temporary truce or the beginnings of a more abiding amnesty.

Read the full story here.


05:27 AM

‘Overnight queues’ to file past late Queen’s coffin

Members of the public wishing to pay their respects to the late Queen have been warned they could have to queue overnight to file past her coffin.

Elizabeth II will lie in state in the Palace of Westminster from 5pm on Wednesday evening until 6.30am on the morning of the funeral on Monday.

Her coffin will be placed on a raised platform, called a catafalque, in Westminster Hall – the oldest part of Parliament – and the public will be able to walk past 24 hours a day.

The coffin will also lie at rest in St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, guarded by Vigils from The Royal Company of Archers, to allow the people of Scotland to pay their respects.

READ MORE: Where will Queen Elizabeth's body lie in state and how can I visit?


05:24 AM

King to visit Scotland

During his day in Edinburgh, the King will inspect the Guard of Honour at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, before attending the ceremony of the Keys on the forecourt.

At the Palace, the King will hold audiences with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, followed by an audience with Alison Johnstone, the Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament.

Words of sympathy will be expressed by the Scottish Parliament when King Charles and and his wife Camilla, the Queen, attend to receive a motion of condolence, with the King replying.


05:22 AM

Charles to lead siblings in procession

King Charles III will lead the Royal family in a poignant procession behind the coffin of his mother when it travels to an Edinburgh cathedral to allow the public to pay their respects.

The Queen will be taken from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to nearby St Giles' Cathedral where her family, and a congregation drawn from all areas of Scottish society, will attend a service of thanksgiving for her life.

Full details about the royal mourners have yet to be released but there is speculation the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the new Prince and Princess of Wales will be part of the group.

The King will lead some of the royals on foot, expected to be the Duke of York, Earl of Wessex, Princess Royal and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence – while the Queen Consort and other members of the monarchy will follow in cars.

Members of the public will be able to view the coffin to pay their respects for 24 hours before it is taken to London ahead of a period of lying in state.

Later in the evening, the King and other members of his family, likely his siblings, will mount a vigil at the cathedral in honour of their mother.


04:32 AM

Today's top stories

  • King Charles III will on Monday address MPs and peers in Parliament’s Westminster Hall – a decade after his mother did the same

  • “Time-limited” is the phrase circulating behind palace walls to describe Prince William’s extraordinary gesture to Harry and Meghan for a royal walkabout on Saturday

  • The late Queen's personal piper has revealed how he once addressed her incorrectly, but she told him she "quite liked it"

  • The Duke of York will on Monday join his siblings in a solemn procession behind Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin, as he prepares to play a central role in national mourning

  • The Duke of Sussex has said Windsor Castle is a "lonely" place without his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II

  • Branding of a funeral director responsible for transporting the late Queen’s body from Balmoral to Edinburgh mysteriously vanished midway through the journey on Sunday

  • The Duke and Duchess of York will take on Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved corgis after the Duchess “bonded” with the late monarch over dog walks, The Telegraph can reveal

  • Heads of state travelling to England for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral will be forbidden from travelling in private jets and helicopters, according to leaked guidance