Highland Council mourns death of Her Majesty The Queen

• The Highland Council's e-book of condolence is available at www.highland.gov.uk/condolence

It has been announced by Buckingham Palace that Her Majesty The Queen has died peacefully at Balmoral yesterday afternoon.

The Convener of The Highland Council, Councillor Bill Lobban expressed his deepest sympathies to The Royal Family, he said:

“On behalf of The Highland Council and communities of the Highlands, we join the nation in mourning for Her Majesty The Queen. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all members of The Royal Family and Household and honour Her Majesty The Queen’s long service and duty to the country.”

At Highland Council locations where flags are flown - all flags have been lowered to half-mast and a period of silence will be observed, in accordance with national protocol.

Books of condolence and gardens of remembrance have been opened at locations across the Highlands - details of which can found at: www.highland.gov.uk/condolence

Also, as a mark of respect, and in line with national guidance, the Council will only be carrying out essential business meetings of The Highland Council during the period of mourning and details of these will be published on the Council’s website at www.highland.gov.uk