Life

Queen Elizabeth II dies aged 96

By Conor Clark

8th September 2022

Ranald Mackechnie

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, has passed away at the age of 96, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

She was in power since 1952 and was the only British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of service.

All of the Queen’s children went to Balmoral Castle to be with her after learning of her declining health, with news of her passing confirmed just a few hours later on 8 September. 

“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” said a statement from the Royal Family.

“The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”

Her death comes after news that the Queen had been placed under medical supervision after doctors became concerned about her health.

Charles, her oldest son, will now lead the country in mourning as the new King and head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.

“The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” he wrote in a message to the country. 

“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.

“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held.”