As we now enter a period of national mourning across the UK following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Harrow residents should anticipate changes to certain events, activities and aspects of normal life.
Harrow Council have confirmed that they are carefully reviewing their forthcoming events and will cancel any deemed necessary in respect of the period of mourning. Essential services, including refuse collections, will continue as normal.
Books of condolence were opened today for members of the public to sign at all libraries in Harrow, Harrow Arts Centre, Headstone Manor and Museum, and the Civic Centre. You can find details of library opening times here.
In addition, Harrow residents are invited to share their thoughts and contribute to the national online version if they prefer, available on the Royal Family’s website.
Anyone wishing to lay flowers is asked to bring them to the Civic Centre and follow signage to an area set aside for floral tributes with the Union Flag flying at half-mast until tomorrow.
The Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Janet Mote, will be reading The Proclamation of Accession on Sunday at 2pm outside the Civic Centre with members of the public invited. A second reading will take place an hour later at 3pm in Harrow Town Centre, near Katy’s statue.
These local Proclamations, replicated across the country, will follow a national reading of the Proclamation on Saturday from St James’s Palace – one of the most important moments in King Charles III’s accession to the throne.
Paying tribute to the late Queen, The Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Janet Mote, said: “As we mourn our late monarch, we also remember the family at which she was the centre. I hope all those close to her can find solace in our late Queen’s exceptional life of service and the global outpouring of sadness and deep affection that her passing has heralded.”
Cllr Paul Osborn, Leader of Harrow Council, said: “Her Late Majesty represented us all, regardless of background or affiliation – she was a Queen for the whole world. She united us in admiration for her service and her steadfastness. The late Queen was someone whom we felt we knew and who represented a central continuity in all our lives.”
Cllr David Perry, Leader of the opposition Labour Group, said: “Our late Queen dedicated her life to this country in a way that is absolutely unprecedented. And balanced this commitment to public service with that of a loving family life. Our hearts go out to those closest to Her late Majesty at this sad time. We will miss her greatly.”
Pat Flaherty, the council’s Chief Executive, said: “Through our grief we must celebrate Her late Majesty’s remarkable life and give thanks for her selfless and unstinting reign. Her generosity and love for others encompassed the globe.”
