UK’s longest serving monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, dies aged 96
Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, has died at the age of 96 after concerns for her health were reported earlier.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”
Flags on landmark buildings across the UK have been lowered as a period of official mourning was announced.
As Queen of the UK and 14 other realms, and head of the 54-nation Commonwealth for 70 years, she was the world’s most recognisable figure and head of state.
Her Majesty took over the British throne at the age of 25 and managed to successfully rule the country through several tumultuous faces with extraordinary dedication and courage.
It has been reported that she died peacefully at the Balmoral in the presence of her loved ones.
Her son the Prince of Wales is expected to succeed her as King but there has been no official announcement as of yet.
(More updates to follow in the coming days)
