Union Jack set on fire while Australia marks national day of mourning for the Queen

The Union Jack was set on fire as Australia marked a national day of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II (Mark Baker/AP) (Picture: AP)

A Union Jack flag was set on fire by protesters while Australia marked a national day of mourning for the late Queen.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Her Majesty was held in Canberra on Thursday – a “one-off” public holiday announced by the prime minister after her death – as anti-monarchy demonstrations were held in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and the nation’s capital.