Tributes have been pouring in since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II was announced, and now the country prepares for a period of mourning. But what happens today to mark the first full day of the mourning period?
Bells rang out, with The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers recommending that muffled bells be tolled for one hour from noon. Multiple churches across London and the UK joined in to pay tribute. A Royal Gun Salute was also sounded for Queen Elizabeth.
What time was the gun salute today?
At 1pm today a 96-round gun salute paid tribute to the Queen’s reign and long life – with one salute for each year she lived. The gun salute took place simultaneously at Hyde Park by The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, and also at the Tower of London by the Honourable Artillery Company. Each round took place ten seconds apart, with the whole thing seeing guns firing in London for over fifteen minutes.
The Royal Gun Salutes are used as a sign of respect or welcome upon various important Royal occasions. In this instance, they’re a mournful method of paying respect to Britain’s longest reigning monarch.
What happens next?
Later today, at 6pm, His Majesty King Charles III is due to give a speech to the nation. Meanwhile St Paul’s Cathedral is hosting a service of prayer and reflection in central London at 6pm this evening.