Local tributes paid after death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Midlothian’s Lord-Lieutenant and Provost have led local tributes after the announcement of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Books of condolence have also been opened at various venues across Midlothian.
Deeply saddened
The Lord-Lieutenant, Lt Col Richard Callander said: “Like millions around the world, I am deeply saddened by today’s news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
A privilege to represent Her Majesty
“As Lord-Lieutenant, it has been my privilege to represent Her Majesty in Midlothian and I know that my team of Deputy Lieutenants will all share my profound sadness.
A life of service
“The Queen pledged to devote her life to the service of others and she has done that faultlessly, and with utter dedication, since her coronation and throughout her entire life. Today marks the end of that extraordinary era.
Devoted to the British people
“Informed by her faith, she had a profound and unique sense of duty and her tireless devotion to our country, to the British people and to the Commonwealth have been – and must continue to be – an inspiration for everyone.
Extending our deepest condolences
“As we mourn her death, and celebrate her wonderful life, we remember her, not only as our Queen, but as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and we extend our deepest condolences to the entire Royal Family. We now embark on an historic period of change but we will never forget the unparalleled service to our country given by Queen Elizabeth II.”
Provost pays tribute
Midlothian Provost Councillor Debbi McCall said: “It is with enormous sadness that we learn of the death of Her Majesty The Queen.
Platinum Jubilee year
“Her death is all the more poignant, coming as it does so soon after the Platinum Jubilee celebrations earlier this year, marking her seventy years as Queen and Head of the Commonwealth.
A steadfast presence
“I know many local people will want to offer their condolences and share their memories of our highly valued monarch who remained a steadfast and constant presence during decades of change.
Warmly welcomed by local people in 2015
“We were honoured to welcome The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh who visited several places in Midlothian during Her Majesty’s reign, most recently on 9 September 2015 when they travelled by steam train to Newtongrange to unveil the plaque marking the opening of Newtongrange Station on the Borders Railway line.
A momentous day
“What a momentous and historic day that was, coming as it did on the day Her Majesty became our longest reigning monarch.”