A statement from our Chair, Dr Ben Mearns
The news about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has had a profound impact on the people of this country and around the world. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this incredibly sad time.
Her Majesty The Queen served the United Kingdom and Commonwealth with distinction for over seventy years and it will take some time for the nation to adjust to a future without her. Whatever challenges this country has faced, The Queen has always been a constant source of reassurance and stability throughout her reign. Many of us have known no other monarch in our lifetime.
The condolences which have been received from Presidents and Prime Ministers across the globe have shown how much respect and affection there is for The Queen. As King Charles III addresses the nation this evening, we will remember The Queen for the extraordinary person she was while taking comfort from the knowledge that our King is well prepared to take to the throne.
As we enter this period of official mourning, it is only fitting and proper that we will suspend all political events, meetings and campaign activity as a mark of respect, and our councillors will join others in assisting with the signing of the books of condolence in the borough.Dr Ben Mearns
Chair, Reigate and Banstead Conservative Association.
Paying your respects locally
The Borough Council has opened a number of books of condolence at the following venues:
- The Town Hall in Reigate
- The Harlequin in Redhill
- Banstead Community Centre
- Horley Community Centre
Further details for opening times can be found on the Council's website. Alternatively, you can sign the national online book of condolence by visiting the Royal Family's website: https://www.royal.uk/
Finally, at 4pm on Sunday 11th September, the Mayor, Cllr Frank Kelly, Will read the local proclamation of the accession of King Charles III. This will take place at The Harlequin in Redhill, and tickets are available on a first come, first served basis, or you can watch it on the Council's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/ReigateBanstead As dictated by protocol, the flags on Council buildings will be raised to full mast at 10:30am for the National Proclamation on Saturday 10th, and returned to half-mast by 1pm on Sunday 11th September.
