"I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service."

The humble words of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her 21st birthday in 1947.

There’s no doubt that promise was kept. As a nation, we now mourn her passing. Tributes have poured in from around the Commonwealth and globe.

To those who met her, she became a personal inspiration. To others, her unwavering stability provided comfort and guidance.

Her late Majesty The Queen demonstrated a profound strength of character throughout many difficult moments during her long reign as our monarch. The longest reign in our country’s history.

During many visits to Devon, Her late Majesty The Queen was always greeted with the warmth you would expect from our wonderful county.

From addressing crowds in Exeter in 1949 as the city was rebuilt after World War II to inspecting recruits at the Royal Marines Commando Centre in Lympstone in 1998, and stopping for a tipple at The Bridge Inn in Topsham.

We have lost an incredible individual who will live on in all of our hearts.

Earlier this summer, towns and villages across East Devon came together to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. It was an honour to light the beacon at Fire Beacon Hill in Sidmouth.

I also shared in the joy of events in Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth that marked a truly historic landmark in Her late Majesty’s remarkable and magnificent reign.

I know many of us have taken the time to pause and reflect on The Queen’s public service and dedication to duty throughout her incredible life.

On Monday, I attended Parliament where King Charles III made his first visit as monarch. MPs and peers offered their condolences to him and the Queen Consort. Parliament is also where the Queen's coffin has been lying in state for public viewing and I know many people from East Devon will be travelling to Westminster to pay their respects.

 

I know the thoughts of East Devon are with the Royal Family as we mourn. God save the King.