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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Stuart Sommerville

West Lothian kirk bell rings tribute to the Queen book of condolence opens

The Kirk of Calder marked the passing of The Queen tolling its bell 96 times from noon in Mid Calder today (Friday).

The tribute came as books of condolence allowing residents to pay their respects to the Queen have been opened, as the Provost called on people to remember the monarch as a mother, a grandmother and great grandmother.

Speaking within hours of the announcement from Buckingham Palace, West Lothian’s Provost Cathy Muldoon joined tributes being paid to the Queen.

READ MORE: Edinburgh locals flock to Holyrood Palace to pay their respects to 'special' Queen

This morning books of Condolence have been made available at West Lothian's Civic Centre in Livingston and in all of council’s Partnership Centres for members of the public to write memories of The Queen. An online book of condolence will be available shortly.

Members of the public can lay floral or other tributes at any war memorials across West Lothian, including outside the Civic Centre in Livingston. Any cards or tributes laid will be collected the day after the funeral and sent to West Lothian Council's archives alongside the Books of Condolence.

All planned council events have been cancelled and any scheduled council meetings will begin with a period of silence. Black drapes have been placed around the portrait of The Queen in the Council Chambers at West Lothian Civic Centre.

Provost Muldoon said: "On behalf of the citizens of West Lothian, we have sent a message of sympathy to The Royal Family on the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

"The Queen has ruled for 70 years, which is longer than any other Monarch in British history. During this time, she became a much loved and respected figure across the globe.

"Her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service for Great Britain and The Commonwealth was remarkable.

"It's important to remember that The Queen was also a much-loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, so the Royal Family are very much in our thoughts and prayers at this poignant time."

West Lothian's Lord-Lieutenant, Moira Niven MBE, added: "Her Majesty led an extraordinary life and I'd like to extend my sympathy to the entire Royal Family at this very sad time.

"It is impossible to put into words the impact that Her Majesty has had on shaping our great country.

"She lived a long and full life and The Queen will always remain a legendary public figure who carried out Her duty with great honour, dignity, respect, intelligence and kindness. The country will miss Her, dearly."

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