It was the day we knew must come but hoped fervently somehow never would: the death of HM The Queen - our Queen.
She was our constant. From wise words in her Christmas addresses, to succour in times of distress such as the pandemic, and even on our bank notes, coins and stamps - as well as that radiant smile of course - she was an integral part of our lives. We are privileged to have lived in the second Elizabethan age and owe her our heartfelt thanks for her reign.
As we mourn the end of this era, however, we also have hope for the future in King Charles III. He will lead our nation with the same devotion and skill as his beloved mother. On behalf of my constituents, I send our sincere condolences and prayers to the King and his family in this difficult time.