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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Saffron Otter

Etiquette expert explains 'appropriate' behaviour for day of Queen's funeral

Today has been made a Bank Holiday to allow Brits to watch the Queen's funeral and pay their final respects as she's laid to rest.

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to watch the procession in London, with millions more watching at home on TV. Unlike usual bank holidays which are a time for celebrating, having fun and going away, today is the Day of National Mourning and will come with a sombre mood for many.

While the Government has said it's up to employers whether they let their workers have the time off or not, hundreds of businesses have decided to close up shop as a sign of respect to the longest-reigning British monarch - including high street stores and restaurant chains such as McDonald's. Others, such as Wetherspoons, have chosen to only open set sites in central London.

There has been some confusion about what people can and can't do too, with British Cycling issuing an apology on Thursday after they advised cyclists not to head out on their bikes during the funeral service, which was met with backlash. So what is appropriate behaviour for the day of Her Majesty's funeral, according to etiquette experts?

Members of the public pay their respects as they pass the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, lying in state (Getty Images)

We spoke with Debrett's Etiquette - who provide a guide to protocol and modern manners, offering information about addressing royalty, people with titles and members of the professions, as well as advice on correspondence, rites of passage, business etiquette and international etiquette.

A Debrett's spokesperson told The Mirror: "Different people will have different feelings about the state funeral, but it's important to remember that for many, it's a sad and significant day.

"So while it's of course up to individuals how they wish to spend the day, it's worth showing consideration for those who may be grieving and wishing to pay their respects.

"Our advice is therefore to be aware of those who are in a sombre and reflective frame of mind, and tempering activities and behaviour accordingly."

They say many communities can gather to watch the funeral in church halls or in public spaces, "while others may simply prefer to spend a quiet day at home or with family."

People in The Two Brewers pub in Windsor, Berkshire, watching on a television King Charles III joining the procession of Queen Elizabeth II's coffin (PA)

Heading to the pub is also a good shout, with many local public houses screening the funeral in the morning.

Debrett's highlights how there will be a two-minute silence at 11.55 to mark the conclusion of the Queen's funeral which people can respectfully partake in, while members of the public can sign the Royal Family book of condolence online.

When it comes to raising a glass for Her Majesty, the etiquette pro says: "The Loyal Toast, as it's known, is a toast to the Sovereign that's normally made at formal dinners.

"When the Queen was alive, the approved toast was simply 'The Queen', and usually takes place after the National Anthem has been sung.

"If families prefer not to sing the National Anthem, families could simply stand, raise their glasses and say 'The Queen' before taking a drink and sitting down again. They may wish to toast The King as well."

Queen Elizabeth II raises a glass during the Millennium Celebrations alongside Tony Blair (Tim Graham Photo Library via Get)

There are also no rules on whether those grieving should wear black on Monday, with the Debrett's spokesperson clarifying: "It's a matter of personal choice."

Meanwhile, guidance on the government website for the period of National Mourning says it is customary for mourners to leave floral tributes.

But the government and the royal household respectfully request that no official flowers, wreaths, or tributes be sent from organisations to the location of the State Funeral, Royal Residences or government offices.

Within your local community, there may be a place, such as a town hall or place of worship, where members of the public can lay flowers or tributes in memory of Her Majesty - and you can check the website of your local authority, or local media for further information.

Making a donation to one of Her Majesty's many charities and patronages may also be considered a fitting way of paying tribute, the government adds. And more information can be found here on where you can donate.

How will you be spending Monday? Let us know in the comments.

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