Yesterday (8 September) we learnt of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. At NGI we send our sincere condolences to all members of the Royal Family at this difficult time. People across the world are mourning her death and our deepest thoughts are with everyone affected. Her Majesty devoted more than 70 years of her life to her duty and many of you will have fond memories of her during her reign.
Marks of respect and how you can express your thoughts and sympathies
As a mark of respect, Civic flags will be flown at half-mast and Newcastle Council and Gateshead Council have created books of condolence which will be open at:
- Newcastle Civic Centre (Arches reception)
- City Library (Level 1– beside blue glass entrance)
- Gateshead Civic Centre
- Leam Lane Sure Start
- Birtley Library
- St Mary’s Heritage Centre
- Blaydon Leisure Centre
- Whickham Library
- Saltwell Towers
These will be open until the day after the funeral and members of the public are invited to sign these to express their thoughts and sympathies. If you are unable to sign the Books of Condolence in-person, you can sign the e-book online at https://www.royal.uk/ and there is also an opportunity to make a donation to one of the Queen’s charities with information available on the Royal website. Floral tributes can be left on Ceremonial Way at the Civic Centre and Saltwell Park’s Field of Remembrance.
As a mark of respect, the arch of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the Tyne Bridge and Newcastle Civic Centre will be lit in purple during the mourning period.
The best source of national information is www.gov.uk and for local information please see the websites of Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council. These will be updated as the Royal Household sets out arrangements on Lying-in-State and the State Funeral.
