Devon's politicians pay tribute to The Queen
Flags are flying at half mast across the county
Last updated 8th Sep 2022
Devon's MPs and councils have joined tributes to Her Majesty the Queen following the announcement of her death.
Torbay MP Kevin Foster tweeted:
In his tribute, Plymouth Sutton and Devonport's Luke Pollard has called the Queen a 'towering example of public service:
North Devon MP Selaine Saxby gave this statement:
"It is with immense sadness that we mourn the loss of our much loved, and longest serving monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen has been such a constant in our lives, and dedicated her life to public service. We all mourn her loss and my thoughts and prayers are with her immediate family.
"Whilst we are all saddened at this news, we will come to reflect on her service, fortitude and achievements. She has been the one great constant in all of our lives.
"And now for the first time in more than 70 years - God Save the King."
Leader of Exeter City Council Phil Bialyk shared his reflections on Her Majesty in a video:
Torbay Council has announced it's holding a special full council meeting tomorrow (Friday), with books of condolence also opening across the area.
Leader Councillor Steve Darling, said: “I am saddened to hear about the loss of Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty had strong connections to South Devon. She visited Torbay on several occasions and first met His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh when he was at Dartmouth Royal Naval College. I’m sure her death will be felt by many people across Torbay, who will want to pay tribute to our longest reigning monarch.”
Cllr Charles Nuttall, chair of Teignbridge District Council says a book of condolence will be opened for The Queen, flags flown at half mast and council business paused during the mourning period:
Lord Mayor of Plymouth Sue Dann said, “On behalf of the entire city of Plymouth I would like to express our sincere condolences to the Royal Family after the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“As a mark of respect the flags on Council buildings and key city landmarks will now be flown at half-mast.”
Plymouth City Council is also opening books of condolence, and people are being invited to lay flowers on the grass outside St Andrew's Church.