Leading figures across the region have shared their concerns - and the mood of the nation - about the Queen as further news is awaited from Balmoral.
Amid a national outpouring of messages by well wishers following the announcement that doctors are worried about Her Majesty's health, prompting senior Royals to hurry to her bedside, local political and religious leaders joined the show of support. Among them was MP Chi Onwurah who passed on her 'thoughts and prayers' on behalf of the city.
The Newcastle Central MP posted a message on Twitter which read: "I know the thoughts and prayers of Newcastle will be with Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family at this time." The sentiment was echoed by fellow MP Catherine McKinnell, who represents Newcastle North and said: "Thoughts and prayers today are with the Queen and her family."
Read more: Follow our live blog updates on the Queen's health here
This Bishop of Durham was also among those quick to respond to Thursday afternoon's sudden news that doctors have worries about the 96-year-old Queen's state of health. Speaking in the House of Lords during a debate on education, the Right Reverend Paul Butler said: "I begin by expressing on behalf of the benches our concern for Her Majesty and the assurance of our thoughts and prayers for her and the royal family."
And Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury and former Bishop of Durham, also took to Twitter to share his thoughts. He wrote: “My prayers, and the prayers of people across the (Church of England) and the nation, are with Her Majesty The Queen today. May God’s presence strengthen and comfort Her Majesty, her family, and those who are caring for her at Balmoral.”
The Queen’s four children – Charles, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex – are either at her bedside or on their way, joined by the Duchess of Cornwall, Duke of Cambridge and Countess of Wessex.
A spokesperson for the Sussexes had initially said Meghan would be joining Harry at Balmoral but later a source said she would remain in London but would not attend the WellChild Awards. The duchess could potentially join Harry in Scotland at a later date, the source said, following the change of plan.
The Queen, 96, pulled out of a virtual Privy Council on Wednesday, a day after appointing Liz Truss as Prime Minister at Balmoral.
A Palace spokesman said: “Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision. The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral."
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