Ipswich marks the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as State Funeral takes place

People across Suffolk have come out to pay their respects

Ipswich Town Hall Funeral Screening
Author: Henry WilliamsPublished 19th Sep 2022
Last updated 19th Sep 2022

People across Suffolk have been finding their own ways to commemorate the life of Queen Elizabeth II, on the day of her State Funeral in London.

Some 2,000 people attended Monday's service at Westminster Abbey, with world leaders, UK prime ministers past and present and key figures from public life being joined by members of the royal family.

But many have decided to mark the occasion closer to home as scores of people also attended the screening of the Queen's funeral at Ipswich Town Hall.

People from across Suffolk have been in attendance to say their final goodbyes to Her Majesty.

Among them is veteran, Stephen Black, who served with Princes William and Harry in the army.

"I serve the queen, I may be a veteran but I made my pledge of allegiance."

"Ipswich is where they William and Harry served, up at RAF Wattisham, so I thought I'd pay my respects here."

Stephen Black, Army Veteran

"They're doing a fantastic job, the way they've met the crowds, met the people, it's a hard time for them.

"To His Royal Highness, King Charles III I give my service also."

Veterans paying their respects

The Mayor of Ipswich, John Cook, said it's good for the community to reflect on the Queen's legacy together:

"There are people living alone who would rather be with others at this time."

The Queen's funeral screening in Ipswich

"The Queen has been ever-present through so many of our lives and the figurehead of our country."

John Cook, Mayor of Ipswich

"Whereas usually I'd have a gold chain attached to the badge of Ipswich, since the death of Her Majesty it's been a black ribbon. After her funeral tomorrow the gold chain will go back on - it is a mark of respect."

"We may be a constitutional Monarchy but the head of state plays a very important role in this country, often bringing people together in a way an elected person cannot."

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