Universities across the region have shared heartfelt messages of tribute following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II yesterday.
The UK's longest-reigning monarch passed away surrounded by her four children and other members of the royal family, at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire - Buckingham Palace announced yesterday evening.
She was 96 years old, and had reigned for 70 years after initially taking to the throne following her father - King George VI's - death in 1952.
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Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, Professor Chris Day, who is also the Deputy Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear said: “The University community joins the Royal Family and the nation in mourning Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“We express our deep and lasting gratitude for Her Majesty’s devotion to duty in the service of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth throughout her extraordinary reign, from a young girl who did not expect to be Queen, to an iconic and celebrated figure who became Britain’s longest reigning monarch.
“Remarkable in her sense of duty and devotion to a life of service, she was an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.
“For every generation, she provided an example and continuity that unites us today in offering our heartfelt condolences.”
Northumbria University, also in Newcastle, added: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Taking the throne in 1952, Queen Elizabeth is the longest-reigning British monarch having reigned for more than 70 years.
"The thoughts of the Northumbria University community are with the Royal Family at this very sad time."
Durham University also took to social media, writing: "We are deeply saddened at the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts are with members of the Royal Family at this time.
"The Queen had numerous links with Durham and visited our University on various occasions, including when our ‘Stockton Campus’ was renamed on its tenth anniversary as ‘Queen’s Campus’ in recognition of Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee in 2002. We share the nation’s gratitude for her service and sense of loss at her death."
University of Sunderland Chancellor Sir David Bell, also posted a piece to camera tribute to Her Majesty on the university's official Facebook page. Speaking directly to the camera, he said: "On this very sad occasion, it is right and proper that the University of Sunderland mourns the passing of Her Majesty the Queen.
"In doing so, we will be joined by people across the region, the country, and indeed, the wider world. The Queen was a pillar of strength and continuity, through a momentous period in our country's history. Her longevity as monarch was an almost unique example of selfless commitment and a wonderful inspiration to us all.
"As a mark of respect during this period of national mourning, we have made some small but important changes to our website and external facing communication channels. We will also let you know how you can pay tribute to The Queen on our various campuses in the coming days."
He continued: "Her Majesty the second will be talked about for centuries to come. We have been fortunate indeed to have lived during her reign."
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