Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II, has passed away at Balmoral Castle on Thursday 8 September 2022.
Following this announcement, there is now a national period of mourning.
There are several events and activities taking place in Bedford Borough to commemorate the life of Her Majesty the Queen and to recognise the proclamation of our new monarch, King Charles III.
Book of Condolence
A Book of Condolence is being opened on Saturday 10 September at the Harpur Suite in Bedford. The premises will remain open from 8am to 5pm until the day after the funeral for those who would like to sign it.
A virtual book of condolence has also been set up by The Royal Family, which you can sign by going to the Monarchy website.
Floral tributes
We’re inviting people who live and work in the Borough to lay flowers at the Russell Park designated floral tribute area, at the town side of the park, near to The Embankment.
The Council requests that flowers are taken out of cellophane wrappers where possible and that no naked flames or candles are left.
Borough Hall and Old Town Hall flags
Following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty the Queen, the flags outside Borough Hall and at The Old Town Hall have been lowered to half-mast.
At 11am on Saturday 10 September, we will raise the flags in recognition of the proclamation of King Charles III, before lowering them again on Sunday for the local proclamations.
Service of thanksgiving
St Paul’s Church will host a Service of thanksgiving for Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II on Saturday 17 September at 3pm.
All members of the Bedford community, of all beliefs or none, are invited to the service. Those taking part will include young people and those from different faiths.
The Archdeacon of Bedford, the Venerable Dave Middlebrook will be the preacher. The service of hymns and readings, music by the choir, the lighting of candles and prayers will be led by the Vicar, Canon Kevin Goss.
The service will also be attended by the Mayor, Dave Hodgson and the Lord-Lieutenant, Susan Lousada.
St Paul's Church is located at St Paul's Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ.
Public screening of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II
Bedford Borough Council has announced it will be holding a public screening at Bedford Corn Exchange for those wishing to watch the funeral of our late Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II.
The funeral will be on Monday 19 September from 11am, with doors at Bedford Corn Exchange opening from 10am.
With numbers strictly limited due to the capacity of Bedford Corn Exchange, residents must book their place to watch the proceedings in advance.
To book a place, contact the Bedford Corn Exchange box office on 01234 718044, or book your place online on the Bedford Corn exchange website.
