Newark Parish Church and Southwell Minster say goodbye to a remarkable Queen
Preparations are being made for one of the most momentous occasions in decades, the funeral of our beloved monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.
Newark Parish Church and Southwell Minster will be screening Monday’s funeral, which the new king, King Charles III, has declared to be a bank holiday.
The church bells will ring out in Newark at 10.30am and coverage will begin from 10.50am.
The Queen’s funeral cortege will arrive at Westminster Abbey at 11am and there will be a minute’s silence held around the country as the coffin is carried into the abbey.
Schools and offices will be closed that day, along with most shops, banks and post offices.
The Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Sir John Peace, of Caunton, will represent the county at the state funeral, having had the honour of being her representative here.
Sir John said: “This occasion, although terribly sad, will be a chance for us to come together as a nation and celebrate the life of a remarkable monarch, whose commitment to public service was unsurpassed during her 70-year reign,
“It was an honour to be the Queen’s representative in Nottinghamshire and I will forever look back with great pride and affection at the time I was privileged to spend with her during her numerous visits here.
“Over recent days, it has become clear just how much the Queen meant, not just to communities across the length and breadth of the United Kingdom, but also across the Commonwealth and indeed the world.
“Tributes have poured in, from the young and old alike, and from so many dignitaries and world leaders. These messages demonstrate profound respect, admiration and honour for Her Majesty’s commitment to duty and peerless leadership — but also that she was deeply loved.
“Even at this time of mourning, I am sure that King Charles III and the royal family will be comforted to see the outpouring of love and affection which has been shown for our Queen.”
Sir John will be among those giving an address at a service of thanksgiving at Southwell Minster at 3pm on Sunday. It will also feature contributions from organisations that had links to the late monarch.
