Queen Elizabeth II has been praised for her “tireless service” and her sense of humour as councils across Surrey pay tribute to the late Queen, who died on Thursday.

The monarch died peacefully aged 96 at her at her home in Balmoral in Scotland.

Some authorities have already set up books of condolence, and an online book of condolence is also available at https://www.royal.uk

Flags at council buildings in the county will be flown at half-mast as a tribute and in line with national protocol.

Farnham Town Council

In a statement, Farnham Town Council said “it is with great sadness that Farnham Town Council learnt of the death of HM The Queen”, with the mayor set to make an official statement on behalf of Farnham Town Council in due course.

A special webpage has been created on the council’s website including information on “opportunities for the community to express their sorrow”.

The Union flag at Gostrey Meadow has been lowered to half-mast and a black ribbon has been attached to the flag outside the Town Council office.

Books of condolence have been opened and these can be signed at the Council office in South Street, Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm and Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. 

If you would like to place flowers as a tribute to HM The Queen you can do so at Gostrey Meadow. Flowers should be laid on the bandstand or the area immediately surrounding it.

As a mark of respect to HM The Queen, the council has cancelled a number of planned events. These include the:

  • Heritage Open Day talks in the Council Chamber on September10 and 17
  • Gin and Fizz Festival on September 17, and 
  • Council meeting on September 15.

The Mayor of Farnham will read the proclamation declaring the new sovereign outside the council office on Sunday, September 11 at 3.35pm.

Everybody is welcome to attend this momentous occasion.

As a mark of respect, Farnham Town Council’s outside workforce team will wear black armbands and civic leaders and senior officers will wear black ties or a black rosette. 

Haslemere Town Council

A statement on the council’s website reads: “The mayor, councillors and staff of Haslemere Town Council join the rest of the country in mourning the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“The Queen ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe.

“Her extraordinary reign saw her travel more widely than any other monarch, undertaking many historic overseas visits.

“Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she has been an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.”

The council advises residents to continue to check its website as it will be publishing details of:

  • Proclamation of Accession
  • State Funeral
  • Books of Condolence

On floral tributes, it adds: “Should you wish to leave a floral tribute, please do so where indicated on the High Street Memorial green opposite the Town Hall. Please note that in accordance with official protocol these will be removed the day after the funeral.”

Surrey County Council – Book of condolences at Guildford Cathedral

The county council said residents will be kept up to date via the website on national protocol and how Surrey will be commemorating Her Majesty The Queen as arrangements are confirmed, as well as on how services may be affected.

Councillor Helyn Clack, chair of Surrey County Council, said: “The councillors and officers of Surrey County Council are deeply saddened at the news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time.”

Letters to the King sending condolences should be sent to: FAO The King’s Private Secretary, Buckingham Palace, London, SW1A 1AA

A memorial book will be open at Guildford Cathedral from 12 noon on Friday for anyone to sign. An online book of condolence has also been set up via the cathedral’s website.

Waverley Borough Council – ‘Greatest sadness’

Waverley Borough Council said in a statement on its website that further updates would follow regrading commemorations.

The statement said: “It is with the greatest sadness that Waverley Borough Council has learnt of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time.”