The people of Falkirk have been paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following her death yesterday (Thursday) at her beloved Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire.
Many will remember her visits to the district over the years as she helped to mark some of the the biggest moments in Falkirk' s civic life, including the opening of the Mariner Centre in 1985, the Falkirk Wheel in 2002 and the new Forth Valley Royal Hospital in 2011.
Her most recent visit was in 2017 when she and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the Kelpies and opened the Queen Elizabeth II canal.
Read more: Falkirk councillor hopes new owners will improve bus services for everyone
Local people are invited to contribute to a book of condolence which is now open in the Drawing Room of Callendar House, Callander Park, Falkirk. The House is open every day between 10am and 5pm and free parking is available nearby.
Those wishing to leave a floral tribute are invited to do so by the steps on the grass area that is directly in front of the main entrance to Callendar House.
An online book of condolence is also available on the Royal Family website.
Tributes to the longest serving monarch in British history were led by Falkirk's First Citizen, Provost Robert Bissett, who said: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
“I offer my heartfelt sympathies to the Royal Family at this very difficult time and on behalf of everyone in our local communities.
"Her duty and service to this country and Commonwealth has been outstanding. Her tireless work across the globe brought calm, dignity, and warmth to every location she visited and inspired so many.
"Her Majesty, The Queen has ruled for longer than any other Monarch in our history and has given so much of her life to help others. Her legacy will be remembered for many, many years to come.”
The Provost's words have been echoed by local politicians, across the council chamber.
Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, the leader of the council and of the SNP group, said: "Queen Elizabeth meant many things to many people, and her presence meant that she was well received and celebrated in many countries. There is no doubt that her loss will be felt around the world.
“My thoughts are with her family as they mourn the loss of a loving mother and grandmother with young ones facing the prospect of growing up without her in their lives. It is a moment to reflect upon our own losses over the years and give thought to her family at this sad time.
“It is also a reminder that we, as elected officials, should strive to do the best for our communities. Despite the range of views there are on any monarchy, it is without question that Queen Elizabeth strived to do her best wherever she went and that is something we should all aspire to.”
The Labour group on Falkirk Council also paid tribute to Her Majesty.
Depute leader Euan Stainbank said: "The Falkirk Labour Group would like to express our deep sadness at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
"Our condolences go to her entire family and the country as we enter a period of national mourning. We must recognise the immense life and influence she had on our country over her 70 years of service.”
James Kerr, leader of the Falkirk Conservatives on Falkirk Council said: "We mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Our country will miss her, but will not forget her nor the values she brought to public life. Service, respect, humility, dignity, and pragmatism; she led a wonderful example for her son, King Charles III. God Save The King."
