BOURNEMOUTH paid tribute to Her Majesty the Queen following the announcement of her death on Thursday evening.
A book of condolence was opened by BCP Council at Bournemouth Library to allow people to pay their respects.
Signing the book, resident Dorota Careford said: “The Queen is the mother of this country, she has always held everybody together, and that's amazing, that’s an inspiration for the future generations.
"For me, she is a hero and I don’t think we will ever be the same.”
Residents laid flowers at Bournemouth War Memorial in the Central Gardens and the Union Flag at Bournemouth Town Hall was flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
The nation is now in a 10-day period of mourning.
Councillor Drew Mellor, leader of BCP Council, said: “This is a very sad time for the entire country and our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family at this very difficult period.
“We have lost one of the most important figures from British history, who never wavered from her dedication to public duty and who served this country with courage and grace.
“Her Majesty the Queen has been a constant throughout our lives, and I am personally very saddened by this news, having always had a deep respect for her. I know that residents who have met her were always moved by her words of comfort or touched by her warmth.
“Books of condolence will be opened so residents and visitors can pay their respects locally. It is important that people have an opportunity to give their sympathies.
"I encourage those who would like to, to take the opportunity to write down their memories of Her Majesty the Queen, so we can all collectively share this time of mourning.
“I am proud that all three of our towns have been visited by Her Majesty the Queen; her place in our history will never be forgotten.”
The Queen visited Dorset on a number of occasions including Bournemouth Gardens in 1966, the police station in 1979 and King’s Park and the seafront in 2004.
As part of her visit in 1966 she also visited Christchurch Priory.
The 2004 visit that began in Bournemouth continued with a visit to Poole’s Lighthouse and a tour of the new RNLI training college.
Councillor Nigel Hedges, the Chairman of BCP Council said: “Many local people will have attended these historic events and will treasure their own recollections of those days.”
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