Following the tragic passing of Her Majesty The Queen yesterday, Dartford Borough Council wishes to share with residents how they can pay their respects over the coming days.

Books of condolence have opened at the Civic Centre and at Dartford Museum today (Friday). These will be open from 9am to 5pm every day of the week and will close at 5pm the day after the funeral service. The Council is encouraging floral tributes to be left at The Bandstand in Central Park.

On Sunday Dartford will play its part in a historic ritual unchanged for generations. The passing of one monarch and ascension of the next sees a formal proclamation made at St James’s Palace in London and also in towns like Dartford. All local residents will be most welcome to play their part in this moment of history by attending the ceremony at Memorial Gardens by Dartford Library at 3pm on Sunday, September 11th.

The Worshipful the Mayor of Dartford Councillor Paul Cutler said: "Her Majesty The Queen has been a huge part of our lives as our monarch for 70 years. I know I speak on behalf of the people of Dartford when I say that her dedication and deep sense of civic duty have been an inspiration to countless lives.

"The many tributes we have already seen speak volumes to the impact Her Majesty's life had on the world. There may never be a figure like her again and we will miss her for many years to come. Now it is time for a new monarch and I know King Charles III will build on her amazing legacy. Long live the King.”

Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Councillor Jeremy Kite MBE said: “The passing of Her Majesty The Queen is so desperately sad. For many of us who have known no other monarch it seems impossible to think that she is no longer there to lead and guide us. We can only be thankful that we were lucky enough to live in her time.

“This summer’s Platinum Jubilee seems a long way off but, looking back, we perhaps all knew that it was something of a goodbye and a huge national ‘thank you’. I am pleased we all had a chance to show Her Majesty what we all thought about her and how much we appreciated her service.

“God bless her.”

Leader of the Opposition, Councillor Kelly Grehan said: “I’ve been deeply saddened by the death of The Queen. For over 70 years Queen Elizabeth II exemplified the values of duty and public service.

“She has been a source of stability and consistency in an ever changing world. I find it hard to imagine Great Britain without her.

“Rest in peace Ma’am.”

Published: 9th September 2022