The Union Flag at Altrincham Town Hall is today at half-mast as the country begins 10 days of mourning following the death yesterday of Her Majesty The Queen.
The Queen’s death at the age of 96 was announced last evening.
Her son, King Charles III, said the death of his mother was a “moment of great sadness”. He will be making an address to the nation this evening.
More locally, Altrincham has been reacting to the news of the monarch’s passing.
Councillor Andrew Western, leader of Trafford Council, has this morning opened a book of condolence at Altrincham Town Hall.
In a statement, Trafford Council said it was “deeply saddened” to hear the news:
Councillor Chris Boyes, Mayor of Trafford, said the Queen had served the country “selflessly, steadfastly and resolutely”.
“This she has done for more than 70 years, not just as this country’s leader but during the Second World War when she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service.
“In 1947, the Queen said in a radio address: ‘I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.’ It is clear to me that the Queen has done exactly that.”
There was a subdued air in Altrincham town centre this morning as shops and restaurants started to open.
One shop that will not be opening today will be The Entertainer on George Street.
The toy shop announced on Twitter that it “as a mark of respect” it would be closed on Friday 9th September.
Altrincham BID said it would be pausing its social media activity as a mark of respect following the news.
The Altrincham and Sale Chamber of Commerce said it was “deeply saddened” by the news.
St George’s Church in Altrincham has also opened a book of condolence and said it was open today from 9am to 8pm for private prayer, followed by Evening Prayer at 8pm to “reflect on the significant life & work of Her late Majesty, the Queen”.
