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Queen funeral latest: Members of the public pay their respects with queue 2 miles long

Members of the public have begun to pay their respects to the Queen at the Palace of Westminer with the queue almost 3 miles long.

The late monarch’s coffin was brought from Buckingham Palace in a moving procession. Crowds lining the streets occasionally burst into spontaneous applause or cheers.

The coffin, which had been followed by the King with his three siblings - Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward, arrived at Westminster Hall shortly after 3pm.

Princes William and Harry were also in attendance.

The Queen’s lying in state began at 5pm, continuing until 6.30am on Monday - the day of the Queen’s funeral.

Wednesday headlines

Wednesday 14 September 2022 06:49 , Will Mata

Here are all the headlines for royal news this morning:

King, William and Harry to walk behind Queen’s coffin to Westminster Hall

Route revealed for those joining queue to pay final respects to Queen

Prince Harry hits back over funeral ban ‘military service not determined by uniform’

Trains to run through the night to bring mourners to London to pay respects to Queen

People have right to protest against monarchy, police say

The longer read

Wednesday 14 September 2022 06:51 , Will Mata

Find out why the Queen spent ‘happy days’ with Prince Philip in Malta

The Mediterranean island is the only place outside the UK that Queen Elizabeth has ever called home.

Read our full article here.

The Queen and Duke in Malta (PA Wire)
The Queen and Duke in Malta (PA Wire)

Center Parcs rows back on decision to kick out holidaymakers on day of Queen’s funeral

Wednesday 14 September 2022 06:54 , Will Mata

Centre Parcs (PA Media)
Centre Parcs (PA Media)

Center Parcs has swiftly rowed back on plans to boot out holidaymakers in its UK sites on the day of the Queen’s funeral.

The company was floodedwith complaints after it said that its five parks will close for 24 hours from 10am on Monday.

Guests partway through seven-day holidays – which generally cost more than £1,000 for a family-of-four at this time of year – would have been forced to spend the night elsewhere or go home early.

Read the full article here.

Timeplan: What can be expected on Wednesday

Wednesday 14 September 2022 06:58 , Will Mata

The hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II arrives at Buckingham Palace (PA Wire)
The hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II arrives at Buckingham Palace (PA Wire)

The Queen's coffin due to be taken from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall to lie in state until morning of her funeral on September 19.

At 11am procession viewing areas will open to the public along the route, with large crowds expected to attend. An area at Hyde Park where the public can watch the procession via big screen will also open.

From 2.22pm the procession will begin, taking the coffin from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall where Queen will lie in state.

The at 3pm the procession is set to arrive at Westminster Hall. A service lasting around 20 minutes will be led by the Archbishop of Canterbury accompanied by the Dean of Westminster.

Four Pacific leaders to join Australian PM at Queen’s funeral

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:00 , Will Mata

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (AP)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (AP)

Four leaders of Pacific Commonwealth nations will join the Australian prime minister at the Queen’s state funeral.

Anthony Albanese told a press conference on Wednesday that the respective leaders of the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Samoa and Papua New Guinea have accepted Australia’s offer of help with transportation to London.

The delegation which is due to leave Thursday evening will also include governor-general David Hurley as well as ten Australian citizens “who have made extraordinary contributions to their communities”.

The state funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey at 11am next Monday and members of the royal family, senior UK politicians and heads of state from across the world are expected to attend.

Earlier on Wednesday, the country’s national cabinet said that when Australia observes a one-off bank holiday to mark the Queen’s death on September 22, a National Memorial Service will be held at Parliament House in Canberra with all state and territory leaders in attendance.

Broadcasters plan coverage of Queen’s funeral

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:03 , Will Mata

King Charles III (PA Wire)
King Charles III (PA Wire)

Media outlets all over the world have announced plans for coverage of the Queen’s state funeral as preparations continue for the historic event.

Despite time differences, networks in the US, Canada and Australia have provided daily live-updates since the news broke on Thursday, with several announcing plans for full and live coverage of the funeral on Monday.

CNN tweeted about its own plans for coverage with a video montage of tributes being paid to the monarch in the UK.

“A queen remembered. A life celebrated. Join CNN as a country and the world say goodbye,” a voiceover for the promotional clip said.

Fellow US outlet NBC News is also due to broadcast the funeral on its network and streaming service: NBC News Now.

Over in Australia, national broadcaster ABC listed “live coverage of the state funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II”, as well as several special documentaries celebrating the monarch’s life and legacy “through Australian eyes”.

London weather forecast: Heavy rain predicted for early-morning mourners in queue for Queen lying in state

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:05 , Will Mata

Mourners lining the streets of London to see the Queen’s coffin are facing the strong possibility of heavy rain on Wednesday morning.

A weather front situated along the south of England did not appear to be moving in the very early hours of first day of the Queen’s lying in state in Westminster Hall.

While high pressure from the Atlantic was trying to nudge its way in to potentially throw the rain off course of the capital, forecasters said the morning was still likely to be a wet one.

See the full weather forecast here.

Clarence House staff ‘left shaking’ after being hit with redundancies in wake of King’s accession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:06 , Will Mata

Dozens of Clarence House staff were given notice of the threat of redundancy while they worked round the clock in the wake of the King’s accession, The Guardian has revealed.

Private secretaries, the finance office, the communications team and other loyal household employees were among those who received the letter, while the thanksgiving service for the Queen was taking place in St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh on Monday.

See the full article here.

London Fashion Week 'will go ahead’

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:08 , Will Mata

Organisers say London Fashion Week will go ahead while observing "royal protocol" and including "our own moments of respect", following the death of the Queen.

London Fashion Week to go ahead with ‘moments of respect’ for the Queen (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Wire)
London Fashion Week to go ahead with ‘moments of respect’ for the Queen (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Wire)

The event, known as LFW and which runs from September 16-20, will be an opportunity for the industry to celebrate the monarch's "legacy and commitment to creativity and design", organisers said.

All union flags will fly at half mast during the event and a minute's silence will be held at 8pm on Sunday.

The Standard View: London will provide the send-off our great Queen deserves

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:10 , Will Mata

 (Christian Adams)
(Christian Adams)

Queen Elizabeth II was the most travelled monarch in history. During her 70-year reign she visited more than 100 countries but as Her Majesty makes a final journey to London, we can say that she is returning home.

Read our full comment here.

The front pages

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:18 , Will Mata

Here is how the national press is covering the royal events on Wednesday

Pictured: Condolence in Little India

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:23 , Will Mata

A man sits on a bench in the district of Southall in London, an area known as Little India, where a book of condolence is open (AP)
A man sits on a bench in the district of Southall in London, an area known as Little India, where a book of condolence is open (AP)

Prince Charles Cinema not changing name

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:26 , Will Mata

Indie cinema The Prince Charles is not changing its name to reflect the ascension.

Unlike some chains, the cinema will be open on Monday - the day of the funeral.

Warning of large queues

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:34 , Will Mata

Members of the public queue to pay their respects to the Queen in St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh (Jacob King/PA) (PA Wire)
Members of the public queue to pay their respects to the Queen in St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh (Jacob King/PA) (PA Wire)

Anyone wishing to see the Queen's coffin may have to wait for around 30 hours - the government has warned.

Culture secretary Michelle Donelan said “extremely large queues, that could go up to thirty hours” could await mourners.

Tributes from Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:37 , Will Mata

London’s Tate Modern (Getty Images)
London’s Tate Modern (Getty Images)

Michelle Donelan added that the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe would be “lighting up their buildings with pictures of the Queen”.

Cafes and bars are set to offer refreshments and access to their facilities throughout the procession proceedings while 500 toilets have been put in place along the route.

Sir Keir Starmer: ‘Protestors must respect those mourning Queen’

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:38 , Will Mata

Sir Keir Starmer urged people wishing to protest to "respect" those mourning the Queen, and not "ruin" their opportunity to say a private "thank you" to the late monarch.

The Labour leader told BBC Breakfast: "The word I'd use around that issue is respect.

"I think if people have spent a long time waiting to come forward to have that moment as the coffin goes past or whatever it may be, I think respect that, because people have made a huge effort to come and have that private moment to say thank you to Queen Elizabeth II.

"Obviously we have to respect the fact that some people disagree. One of the great British traditions is the ability to protest and to disagree, but I think if it can be done in the spirit of respect.

"Respect the fact that hundreds of thousands of people do want to come forward and have that moment, don't ruin it for them."

He said the country's response to the Queen's death has been "very moving".

"It's a very human emotion, I think, where people just want to come, have that private moment where they say thank you to a remarkable sovereign.

"I think it's been very moving across the whole country. It's been quite an incredible moment where so many people have come together."

He will return to Westminster Hall later with his family to privately pay his respects to the Queen.

Queen’s state funeral: What is cancelled and what is closed on Monday September 19?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:40 , Will Mata

All you need to know about Monday’s funeral.

Here is our guide.

On the scene: Mourners share their feelings

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:43 , Will Mata

Chris Bond, from Truro, had attended the lying in state of the Queen Mother in 2002, and expected to have less of a wait to see Queen Elizabeth, after joining the queue at 7am on the other side of the Thames to the Palace of Westminster.

Mr Bond, wearing a black tie and jacket, said that in 2002, “I saw the procession pass by at Horse Guards Parade, and then by the time I made my way down, I actually started to queue right down by the Millennium Wheel and then took me six hours to progress from there.”

“It was six o’clock when I walked into Westminster.”

He added: “Obviously, it’s quite difficult queuing all day long, but when you walk through those doors into Westminster Hall, that marvellous, historic building, there was a great sense of hush and one was told you take as much time as you like, and it’s just amazing.”

In preparation for the wait this time, Mr Bond had brought crisps, nuts and energy bars and bottles of water, and he said he was “well-equipped” for the duration.

He said: “We know the Queen was a good age and she served the country a long time, but we hoped this day would never come.

“But it has come, and I think undoubtedly she has been our most outstanding monarch.”

Pictured: Britain mourns Queen Elizabeth

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:45 , Will Mata

People gather on the day the coffin of Britain's Queen Elizabeth is transported from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament for her lying in state (REUTERS)
People gather on the day the coffin of Britain's Queen Elizabeth is transported from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament for her lying in state (REUTERS)

ICYMI: Tribute from Princess Anne

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:48 , Will Mata

The Princess Royal shared her thoughts with a post on Instagram on Tuesday.

I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother’s life. It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys. Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting.

We will all share unique memories. I offer my thanks to each and every one who share our sense of loss.

We may have been reminded how much of her presence and contribution to our national identity we took for granted. I am also so grateful for the support and understanding offered to my dear brother Charles as he accepts the added responsibilities of The Monarch.

To my mother, The Queen, thank you.

Train directions for September 19

Wednesday 14 September 2022 07:56 , Will Mata

National Rail has provided some advice for passengers travelling on the day of the Queen’s funeral - September 19.

“On the day of the funeral, off-peak restrictions will not apply and off-peak tickets can be used throughout the day. You should check before you travel on the day as London and Windsor are expected to be very busy,” a statement read.

“We are working with our partners to review arrangements to get people to view the funeral where possible and where there is capacity. “

Who were the prime ministers appointed by the Queen?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 08:10 , Will Mata

The Queen on duty as she welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral (PA Wire)
The Queen on duty as she welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral (PA Wire)

Only a few days before her death, Queen Elizabeth II met Liz Truss - who became the fifteenth prime minister to serve under her.

The others have been:

Winston Churchill: 1951-55. “All the film people in the world, if they had scoured the globe, could not have found anyone so suited to the par,” he said. The pair went onto enjoy a close relationship.

Anthony Eden: 1955-57. The first appointed by the Queen, who was crowned in 1952.

Harold Macmillan: 1957-63. Described the Queen as having the “heart and stomach of a man.”

Alec Douglas-Home: 1963-64.

Harold Wilson, 1964-1970, then 1974-76. The first Labour prime minister of the reign.

James Callaghan, 1976-1979.

Margaret Thatcher, 1979-1990.

John Major, 1990-1997. Once said: “One can say to the queen absolutely anything. Even thoughts you perhaps don’t want to share with your Cabinet.”

Tony Blair, 1997-2007. Mr Blair was the first prime minister to have been born during the Queen’s reign — a fact that the monarch brought up at their first meeting.

Gordon Brown, 2007-2010.

David Cameron, 2010-2016. A contemporary of Prince Edward - who went to school with Mr Cameron.

Theresa May, 2016-2019.

Boris Johnson, 2019 to 2022.

Amateur football clubs face wrath of FA

Wednesday 14 September 2022 08:33 , Will Mata

The Football Association will deal with two amateur football teams who played a match last weekend when forbidden in “the strongest possible terms” - it has been reported.

Sheffield International and Byron House FC have been called out for “disrespectful and despicable” behaviour - with the FA having postponed all games after the Queen’s death.

The teams played a friendly as they could not put on a league match.

The Sheffield and District Fair Play League (SDFPL) said an investigation will commence.

First time in London for mourner

Wednesday 14 September 2022 08:34 , Will Mata

Joyce Dawson, 54, from Middlesbrough, has never visited London before, but said she was "inspired" to travel down for the Queen's lying in state after seeing the first people in the queue being interviewed on the TV news on Tuesday evening.

She told the PA news agency: "I texted my daughter and said 'We have to go to London tonight', so we're here.

"It was a spur-of-the-moment thing."

She and her daughter Shelby, 26, who has also never been to the capital before, got on the midnight coach from Middlesbrough and joined the queue at about 8am.

Joyce added: "It's just nice to be a part of this. It's exciting, I'm dead excited, I'm like a little kid."

Queen’s state funeral operation ‘bigger than 2012 Olympics’, says London transport boss

Wednesday 14 September 2022 08:36 , Will Mata

Mourners lining the streets of London to see the Queen’s coffin are facing the strong possibility of heavy rain on Wednesday morning (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Wire)
Mourners lining the streets of London to see the Queen’s coffin are facing the strong possibility of heavy rain on Wednesday morning (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Wire)

Transport chiefs face a challenge “bigger than the Olympics” with “millions” of people expected to travel to central London for the Queen’s Laying-in-State and funeral.

Transport for London commissioner Andy Byford said the organisation wanted to pay tribute to the Queen by running the best possible service despite the unprecedented pressures – and to thank her for unveiling the Elizabeth line, which turned out to be one of her last engagements.

Read the full article here.

From the archive: Leaders attend Queen Mother’s tribute in 2002

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:08 , Will Mata

Britain’s Prime Minister Tony Blair, front right, leader of the Liberal Democrats Charles Kennedy, front second right, Iain Duncan-Smith, the leader of the Conservative Party and Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, front left, file past officers from the Household Cavalry standing in vigil at the coffin of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother as it lies in state in Westminster Hall (AP)

Queen was ‘a legend’ says European Commission president

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:11 , Will Mata

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the Queen was a "legend" who "spoke not only to the heart of her nation but to the soul of the whole world".

In a major speech in Strasbourg, Ms von der Leyen said: "As we look around at the state of the world today, it can often feel like there is a fading away of what once seemed so permanent.

"In some ways the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last week reminded us all of that.

"She is a legend. She was a constant throughout turbulent and transforming events in the last 70 years, stoic and steadfast in her service.

"But, more than everything, she always found the right words for every moment in time."

Pictured: Queues at Lambeth Bridge

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:12 , Will Mata

Members of the public join the queue on the South Bank near to Lambeth Bridge (PA)
Members of the public join the queue on the South Bank near to Lambeth Bridge (PA)

Who is in line for the throne?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:18 , Will Mata

Now Charles is King, how does that shake up the succession? The Royal Family has released its new list of titles and order.

1. The Prince of Wales

2. Prince George of Wales

3. Princess Charlotte of Wales

4. Prince Louis of Wales

5. The Duke of Sussex

6. Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor

7. Miss Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor

8. The Duke of York

The duke and his daughters, Eugenie and Beatrice (PA Archive)
The duke and his daughters, Eugenie and Beatrice (PA Archive)

9. Princess Beatrice, Mrs. Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi

10. Miss Sienna Mapelli Mozzi

11. Princess Eugenie, Mrs. Jack Brooksbank

12. Master August Brooksbank

13. The Earl of Wessex

14. Viscount Severn

The Countess of Wessex, Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, Viscount Severn and the Earl of Wessex attend the Easter Service at St George’s Chapel (Andrew Matthews/PA) (PA Wire)
The Countess of Wessex, Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, Viscount Severn and the Earl of Wessex attend the Easter Service at St George’s Chapel (Andrew Matthews/PA) (PA Wire)

15. The Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor

16. The Princess Royal

17. Mr. Peter Phillips

18. Miss Savannah Phillips

19. Miss Isla Phillips

20. Mrs. Michael Tindall

21. Miss Mia Tindall

22. Miss Lena Tindall

23. Master Lucas Tindall

Vote now - will you be attending?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:22 , Will Mata

Heathrow flights delayed so as to not fly over procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:25 , Will Mata

Heathrow Airport flights will be delayed so they do not disturb the Queen's coffin procession on Wednesday.

The west London airport said in a statement that "out of respect" for the mourning period it will be making "appropriate alterations to our operation".

These include flights being disrupted between 1.50pm and 3.40pm on Wednesday to "ensure silence over central London as the ceremonial procession moves from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall".

The airport added: "Passengers will be notified by their airlines directly of any changes to flights.

"We anticipate further changes to the Heathrow operation on Monday September 19, when Her Majesty's funeral is due to take place, and will communicate those in more detail over coming days.

"We apologise for the disruption these changes cause, as we work to limit the impact on the upcoming events."

From the archive

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:38 , Sarah Harvey

The long, never ending queue of pilgrims to Westminster Hall to pay homage to King George V, was still some two miles long in London, on Jan. 26, 1936.

 (AP)
(AP)

‘Disappointment’ as Prince Harry is banned from wearing military uniform while Prince Andrew given exception

Wednesday 14 September 2022 09:56 , Will Mata

Prince Andrew wore his military regalia for events such as the trooping of the colour (PA Archive)
Prince Andrew wore his military regalia for events such as the trooping of the colour (PA Archive)

Prince Harry has been barred from bearing military regalia while paying respects for the Queen, while his defrocked uncle Prince Andrew has been allowed to at the final state vigil.

Buckingham Palace confirmed on Monday that only senior working royals who hold military ranks will be permitted to don their uniforms, with the exception of the two non-working senior royals.

The Duke of York has been granted special permission as a “special mark of respect” for his mother at the Vigil of the Princes, where none of the Queen’s grandchildren will be attending.

Longer read: The historical significance of lying-in-state and what it meant to the late Queen

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:02 , Will Mata

The Queen is now herself lying in state - having been introduced to the custom as a nine-year-old (LYNN HILTON)
The Queen is now herself lying in state - having been introduced to the custom as a nine-year-old (LYNN HILTON)

The late Elizabeth II was a nervous nine-year-old when she was taken to Westminster Hall to pay her respects to her beloved grandfather George V. Here, Matthew Dennison, her biographer, recalls a poignant moment and reflects on what the tradition means now.

The full Evening Standard article is here.

The next few days

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:27 , Will Mata

September 14-18

The Queen will be lying in state. Members of the public are invited to pay respects by the coffin from 5pm on Wednesday to 6.30am on Monday.

September 16-17

The King and the Queen Consort will visit Wales.

September 18

Foreign heads of state will begin arriving for the funeral.

September 19

Funeral for Queen Elizabeth II.

Pictured: Crowds gather ahead of procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:29 , Will Mata

Members of the public ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (PA)
Members of the public ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (PA)

Pictured: Crowds gather ahead of procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:30 , Will Mata

People take pictures of The Mall, ahead of a procession (REUTERS)
People take pictures of The Mall, ahead of a procession (REUTERS)

Pictured: Public take positions ahead of procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:32 , Will Mata

Crowds begin to line the streets of Westminster (PA)
Crowds begin to line the streets of Westminster (PA)

Big crowds expected

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:40 , Will Mata

Hundreds of thousands are expected to be in London for the occasion, from Wednesday to Monday.

 (PA)
(PA)

More reactions from crowd members

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:45 , Will Mata

Crowds begin to gather along the Mall (PA)
Crowds begin to gather along the Mall (PA)

Stella Single, from Coventry, said she could "feel the difference" in tone from other royal events as the thousands-strong crowd outside Buckingham Palace remained "sombre".

"It's very quiet, whereas usually it's quite loud," she said. "I can really feel the difference in the sound.

"My mum was a monarchist as well and I feel like I've lost a bit of her as well. I can't stop crying."

William Single, 19, said he got up at 5am to travel from Coventry in order to secure a spot outside Buckingham Palace to pay tribute to the Queen.

"I'm here because she served for 70 years and worked every day of her life, and I just want to say thank you," he said.

King Charles enters Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:46 , Will Mata

The King has arrived at the Palace.

King Charles arrives at Buckingham Palace (REUTERS)
King Charles arrives at Buckingham Palace (REUTERS)

More pictures: The King arrives at Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:49 , Will Mata

King Charles III waves to crowds at Buckingham Palace (REUTERS)
King Charles III waves to crowds at Buckingham Palace (REUTERS)

National Moment of Reflection: What time is the minute’s silence on Sunday, in remembrance of Queen Elizabeth?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:52 , Will Mata

On Sunday, a minute’s silence will be observed across the United Kingdom, in memory of Queen Elizabeth II, Downing Street has announced.

All the details are here.

First wristbands handed out in queue

Wednesday 14 September 2022 10:57 , Will Mata

Yellow wristbands are being given out to the first 2,000 people on Albert Embankment.

They will need the bands to see the Queen lying in state.

Crown actress ‘honoured’ to play Her Majesty

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:00 , Will Mata

Claire Foy has told the BBC she was "very honoured to have been a teeny, tiny, small part of,” the Queen’s story with her performance in Netflix series The Crown.

Claire Foy (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Archive)
Claire Foy (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Archive)

Pictured: King arrives at palace in front of crowds

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:02 , Will Mata

King Charles’ convoy arrives at Buckingham Palace (AFP via Getty Images)
King Charles’ convoy arrives at Buckingham Palace (AFP via Getty Images)

Procession viewing areas open to the public along the route

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:07 , Will Mata

It has just gone 11am, which means procession viewing areas will now open to the public along the route.

The procession will begin at 2.22pm.

Crowds gather along the Mall - pictures

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:10 , Will Mata

Crowds gather along The Mall ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (via REUTERS)
Crowds gather along The Mall ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (via REUTERS)
Police are a presence along the street (via REUTERS)
Police are a presence along the street (via REUTERS)
Groups are awaiting the start of the procession (via REUTERS)
Groups are awaiting the start of the procession (via REUTERS)
A military horse on The Mall (via REUTERS)
A military horse on The Mall (via REUTERS)

Heathrow Airport: Flights to be axed during the Queen's funeral on Monday

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:15 , Will Mata

Heathrow Airport flights are expected to be axed during the Queen's funeral on Monday.

Heathrow said: "Passengers will be notified by their airlines directly of any changes to flights.

"We anticipate changes to the Heathrow operation on Monday September 19, when Her Majesty's funeral is due to take place, and will communicate those in more detail over coming days.

"We apologise for the disruption these changes cause, as we work to limit the impact on the upcoming events."

The Civil Aviation Authority has also imposed a restriction on airspace over central London which bans aircraft - including drones - flying below 2,500ft between September 9-19.

POLL: Will you be attending the Queen's lying-in-state in London?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:17 , Will Mata

The results are in...

91 per cent of the 409 who voted said they will not be attending the lying-in-state.

Pictured: Horses on Mall as crowds thicken

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:24 , Will Mata

The Blues and Royals cavalry regiment line up (PA)
The Blues and Royals cavalry regiment line up (PA)

UK’s biggest pub group to stay open for Queen’s funeral

Wednesday 14 September 2022 11:48 , Josh Salisbury

The UK's biggest pub group has said it plans to keep venues open next Monday and show footage of the Queen's funeral.

It comes as the vast majority of retailers have said they will shut their doors during the day as a mark of respect for the Queen.

However, Stonegate, which runs around 4,500 pubs and bars, said its managed venues will remain open to allow punters to celebrate the life of the Queen.

The Walkabout and Slug & Lettuce owner said those running its leased and tenanted pubs will decide separately whether to open their doors on the day, which will be a public bank holiday.

BBC to stream Queen’s lying in state

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:14 , Josh Salisbury

The BBC will stream the Queen lying in state, for people who want to pay their respects virtually, the broadcaster has said.

The global stream for those unable to queue in London will be launched from 5pm, when Her Majesty’s lying in state begins.

It will be available on the BBC home page, the BBC News website and app, the iPlayer, BBC Parliament and Red Button, said the BBC.

Scottish independence move ‘unlikely'

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:33 , Will Mata

The death of the Queen and subsequent commemorations are unlikely to move the needle on Scottish independence, one of the UK’s most trusted pollsters has said.

Queen Elizabeth II died last week at Balmoral, triggering what was called Operation Unicorn - a series of commemorations and events put in place if the monarch died in Scotland.

The Queen’s coffin was brought to Edinburgh on Saturday, then lying in state at St Giles’ Cathedral.

Queen coffin procession: In numbers

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:35 , Will Mata

There will be 779 professional stewards per shift, assisted by 100 civil service volunteer marshals, 40 adult scouts, and 30 members of the first aid nursing yeomanry, as well as Metropolitan Police officers.

There is further queue support from 10 members of the Red Cross, 30 multifaith pastors - co-ordinated by Lambeth Palace - and six Samaritans per shift.

There will also be two British Sign Language interpreters in the accessible queue.

Overall, there are 140 Red Cross volunteers from every nation in the UK, 120 from the Scouts, 170 from the Salvation Army, 180 from the Samaritans, 600 from St John Ambulance, and then the wider deployment of military personnel helping with the overall ceremonial events.

There are more than 500 Portaloos along the route.

There will be more than 1,000 volunteers, stewards, marshals and police officers on hand at any one time as people queue for the Queen’s lying in state, it is understood.

Nurse: King Charles ‘charming’ with ‘lovely’ handshake

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:43 , Will Mata

A nurse has paid tribute to King Charles (Getty Images)
A nurse has paid tribute to King Charles (Getty Images)

A nurse has reflected on meeting the "extremely charming" King Charles twice and sharing a "lovely" handshake and smile with him.

The King has spoken to many people laying tributes for his late mother at various points since her death last Thursday, and one woman has recalled meeting Charles when he was a prince.

Michelle Beaver, who lives in Liverpool and works as a cardiology nurse, told the PA news agency that she met Charles twice in 2019 and that the moments left her with a "warm feeling" and induced plenty of laughter.

She first encountered Charles in February that year at the Marie Curie Hospice in Liverpool, where she has volunteered at and fundraised for the past 10 years, often through trekking overseas.

"I was going in one day because I used to do surveys with all the patients and just sit and chat with them and on one occasion staff members said to me: 'pop back this afternoon, I can't tell you why'," the 50-year-old said.

"I thought it was a bit strange, but I popped back that afternoon and prince Charles was visiting because it was the 60th anniversary of the hospice being opened in Liverpool.

"I was standing on the ward with the nurses and he came along to say hello to us all."

‘No proof of disability’ needed

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:46 , Will Mata

Crowds gather on the Mall ahead of procession (REUTERS)
Crowds gather on the Mall ahead of procession (REUTERS)

No proof of disability will be required to use the accessible queue for the Queen's lying in state, it is understood.

Marshals will be on hand to make sure people are in the correct line.

They - together with stewards - will also be told to proactively look out for anyone struggling, and take a pragmatic approach to assist them.

Pictures: Crowds gather along the Mall

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:54 , Will Mata

A woman holds a union flag ahead of the Queen coffin transit (REUTERS)
A woman holds a union flag ahead of the Queen coffin transit (REUTERS)
Crowds of around ten deep are expected to line the Mall (REUTERS)
Crowds of around ten deep are expected to line the Mall (REUTERS)
Military personnel clean a gun carriage as they make their final preparations at Wellington Barracks, central London, ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (PA)
Military personnel clean a gun carriage as they make their final preparations at Wellington Barracks, central London, ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (PA)
Crowds gather at the Mall (REUTERS)
Crowds gather at the Mall (REUTERS)

Where will the Queen be buried, and will she join her husband?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 12:58 , Will Mata

Queen Elizabeth II will be laid to rest at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, which is the resting place of her parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, as well as Princess Margaret.

Her husband, Prince Philip, is also buried in the Royal Vault in the King George VI memorial chapel, alongside King George III, IV, and V, but will be interred to join the Queen in the memorial chapel.

The memorial is located within St George’s Chapel, at Windsor Castle, and its construction was completed in 1969 and named after the monarch’s father.

For the full article, click here.

Clarence House: Where is the royal residence and who lives there?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:00 , Will Mata

Clarence House staff have been told that their jobs are at risk following the Queen’s death and King Charles III accession to the throne.

Staff members were told that some redundancies at Clarence House were “unavoidable” now that Charles and Camilla have become King and Queen Consort, respectively, as reported by The Guardian.

Many staff members reportedly believed that they would be absorbed into the King’s new household.

For more about the house and its functions, click here.

Round-up: London comes to a standstill to pay its final respects

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:04 , Will Mata

Police officers take up positions as street workers clear away rubbish along The Mall (PA)
Police officers take up positions as street workers clear away rubbish along The Mall (PA)

Huge crowds lined the route from Buckingham Palace to Parliament from early on Wednesday to pay their final respects to Queen Elizabeth II.

Click here to see the article which will lead Wednesday’s Evening Standard.

Petition calling for annual ‘Queen Elizabeth Day’ bank holiday passes 100,000 signatures

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:07 , Will Mata

A petition calling for a permanent ‘Queen Elizabeth’ bank holiday has reached more than 100,000 signatures.

The campaign, on petitions site Change.org, proposes that September 8, the day of the Queen’s death, should become an annual bank holiday in celebration of Her Majesty’s life.

For more details, click here.

Why does The Queen’s procession to Westminster Hall start at exactly 2.22pm?

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:09 , Will Mata

It is a strange time, but there is a reason why the procession begins at 2.22pm!

Find out more, here.

London road and Tube closures ahead of Queen’s lying-in-state

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:13 , Will Mata

Her Majesty The Queen’s lying-in-state at the Palace of Westminster opens to the public from 5pm on Wednesday, September 14, until it closes at 6.30am on Monday, September 19, for the state funeral.

It will be open 24 hours a day.

As part of the policing operation known as Operation London Bridge, certain roads will be closed to all vehicles, and travel might be impacted.

For all the travel details, see our dedicated page here.

How to pay your respects to the Queen - from the procession, to lying-in-state, to the funeral

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:18 , Will Mata

Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin (LYNN HILTON)
Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin (LYNN HILTON)

Members of the public can attend the procession in person at the ceremonial-viewing areas

All the details are here.

Beth and Bluebell are the new dogs of Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:21 , Will Mata

The corgis that belonged to the Queen will now live with the Duke of York.

The King and Queen Consort have their own dogs - which will be moving in with them to Buckingham Palace.

Read more here.

Charles and Camilla pose for a photo with their dogs Beth and Bluebell (AP)
Charles and Camilla pose for a photo with their dogs Beth and Bluebell (AP)

Blue skies over London

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:23 , Will Mata

The Queen’s coffin will be transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey. (Getty Images)
The Queen’s coffin will be transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey. (Getty Images)

Mourners gathering in London to attend the procession of the Queen's coffin from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall should have a dry afternoon after a cloudy morning.

Met Office meteorologist Annie Shuttleworth said "early rain will clear to the south" by Wednesday afternoon, with the skies in central London "becoming brighter with some sunny spells".

She added that it would still feel humid, with a maximum temperature of 23C.

The Met Office forecaster said it would be dry overnight with some clear spells, with a minimum temperature of 13C.

Millions of mourners are expected to make their way to London this week to pay their respects to the Queen at her lying in state at Westminster Hall.

Ms Shuttleworth said that from Thursday there would be "a lot of dry weather with sunny spells each day".

However, she added that it would feel cooler than lately by day and night in the capital.

The Queen's coffin arrived at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday evening, where it was met by the King, his siblings and both his sons.

A long, long wait to honour ‘best ever monarch’

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:25 , Will Mata

David Carlson has been waiting since Tuesday morning (Evening Standard Rachael Burford)
David Carlson has been waiting since Tuesday morning (Evening Standard Rachael Burford)

“The Queen is the greatest monarch the world has ever seen and I could not pass up a chance to honour her life," said David Carlson.

The 75-year-old army veteran, from Wandsworth, was among the thousands queuing on Wednesday morning to visit the Queen's coffin as it lies in state.

He arrived on the banks of the Thames yesterday at 10.30am and braved the wind and rain overnight in the hope of being one of the first into Westminster Hall where the monarch will lie for four days until her state funeral on Monday.

Read his full story here.

No10 responds to EU legal action

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:28 , Will Mata

Downing Street has vowed to respond to the European Union's legal action over the Northern Ireland Protocol ahead of the deadline that falls during the mourning period for the Queen.

The bloc had demanded a response to its raft of infringement proceedings over the UK's failure to comply with the post-Brexit rules before the end of Thursday.

The EU was expected to relax the deadline, as it fell within the mourning period during which politics as normal is paused in Britain.

But No 10 said it would be responding before the deadline regardless.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "We recognise that date and we will be setting out our position ahead of that date."

What the response will be was unclear, but it is expected to set out the UK's thinking that no operational changes on how the protocol works are required.

No blanket postponing of funerals on Monday

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:30 , Will Mata

A funeral directors trade body has said there is no blanket postponing of funerals due to be held next Monday in light of the Queen's state funeral and bank holiday.

The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), which represents more than 4,100 UK funeral homes, said some services will go ahead on September 19 but others will be postponed.

The NAFD believes the "vast majority of family wishes are being honoured", based on conversations with members across the UK.

It said: "Although work is still ongoing, some funerals will go ahead, others are moving to a different date - led by the needs and wishes of the bereaved families involved.

"Most funeral services booked for September 19 will have been arranged many weeks ago, so funeral directors and cemeteries/crematoria are working with families to find the best approach for each one."

The NAFD said it is up to each crematorium or cemetery operator to decide whether to remain open or to close, based on their local circumstances.

Funeral directors are "balancing the needs" of families who are waiting for a funeral, funeral home employees who wish to observe the Queen's state funeral, and staff who may have additional caring responsibilities as a result of closures elsewhere.

The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management said decisions should be led by the needs of bereaved families.

It said it received guidance in an email from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on Monday saying disruption to services such as weddings and funerals should be minimised where possible.

It said: "We would advise that booked funerals should either stand, or be rearranged, depending on the families' choice."

The Local Government Association said: "Government guidance says that, where possible, local register offices should remain open to the public and disruption to services such as weddings and funerals should be minimised.

"Councils are having to take into account a number of factors before making any decisions about what services and events continue on the bank holiday."

Pictured: Guards ready for procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:40 , Will Mata

Members of the Household Cavalry march along the route prior to the procession which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (AP)
Members of the Household Cavalry march along the route prior to the procession which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (AP)

All ceremonial viewing areas now full

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:42 , Will Mata

All ceremonial viewing areas for the procession of the Queen's coffin from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall are full, London's City Hall said.

The procession gets going in around 40 minutes.

'Please be aware that central London is likely to be the busiest it has ever been’

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:44 , Will Mata

Richmond Park MP Sarah Olney has tweeted some advice.

Other leaders not invited

Wednesday 14 September 2022 13:49 , Will Mata

No representatives from Syria, Venezuela or Afghanistan have been invited to the Queen’s funeral, while North Korea and Nicaragua have been invited only at ambassadorial level, a Whitehall source has said.

Russia, Belarus and Myanmar leaders have also not been invited.

Pictures: London is ready

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:05 , Will Mata

Not long now...

Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby meeting members of the public in the queue on the South Bank near to Lambeth Bridge (PA)
Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby meeting members of the public in the queue on the South Bank near to Lambeth Bridge (PA)
Life Guards, and Blues and Royals (top R) units of the Household Cavalry (top) and Household Division Foot Guards (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Life Guards, and Blues and Royals (top R) units of the Household Cavalry (top) and Household Division Foot Guards (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Police officers ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (PA)
Police officers ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (PA)
Members of the public wait along The Mall prior to the procession which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London (AP)
Members of the public wait along The Mall prior to the procession which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London (AP)

Pictured: Queen consort arrives

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:10 , Will Mata

The Queen Consort has arrived at Buckingham Palace.

Dressed in black and wearing a hat, Camilla appeared solemn as she passed thousands of well-wishers.

Queen Consort Camilla (REUTERS)
Queen Consort Camilla (REUTERS)

The order of proceedings

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:16 , Will Mata

- The procession will begin at 2.22pm. The Queen's coffin will be driven from Buckingham Palace - making the journey to Westminster Hall. King Charles, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Sussex will walk behind it alongside other senior royals.

- It will travel along Queen's Gardens, The Mall, Horse Guards and Horse Guards Arch, Whitehall, Parliament Street, Parliament Square and New Palace Yard. It will reach Westminster Hall around 3pm.

- Guns will be fired in Hyde Park and Big Ben will chime during the procession,

- The coffin will be placed on a platform - where it will remain until the funeral on Monday.

- From 5pm on Wednesday until 6.30am on Monday, the public will be able to walk past the coffin to pay their respects.

Met chairman, ‘police operation is very challenging'

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:18 , Will Mata

Ken Marsh, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, described the policing operation as "very challenging".

He told BBC Radio 4's World at One programme: "It's very challenging, it's the biggest thing we've had to put in place for a public area and bear in mind this is completely public where everyone will be standing and gathering. So, it's a real challenge for us purely because of the numbers.

"We're not daunted by the operation at all ... it's been in place ... for many, many years, but it's the unknown, it's the numbers. We've had estimates from a million to five million. We've got to see how that unfolds, my colleagues will be up to the challenge, do not be concerned by that, and we will deal with everything that's put in front of us and the plans are in place for massive numbers."

On security, he added: "There is huge training, my colleagues are trained probably the best in the world in terms of what they'd do and there are a lot of things in place where action can be taken to prevent a terrorist attack or any other sort of attack towards members of the royal family."

On people holding up pieces of paper, he said: "No issues whatsoever, that's part of our democracy, that's what we are."

Ready to go

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:22 , Will Mata

The band has started playing ahead of the procession

The Coffin Carrying Queen Elizabeth II Is Transferred From Buckingham Palace To The Palace Of Westminster (Getty Images)
The Coffin Carrying Queen Elizabeth II Is Transferred From Buckingham Palace To The Palace Of Westminster (Getty Images)

2.22pm - Procession begins

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:24 , Will Mata

The crowd have waited for hours or even days. Now they might catch sight of royals as they march towards Westminster Hall alongside the Queen’s coffin.

The coffin has left Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:27 , Will Mata

The Queen's coffin has left Buckingham Palace in a procession including the King and other members of the royal family en route to Westminster Hall to lie in state until Monday morning.

Members of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery leave Wellington Barracks ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (Getty Images)
Members of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery leave Wellington Barracks ahead of the ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall (Getty Images)

Procession begins its way down the Mall

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:29 , Will Mata

Guards march ahead of the procession of the Gun Carriage which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London (via REUTERS)
Guards march ahead of the procession of the Gun Carriage which will carry the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in London (via REUTERS)

The music of the march

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:32 , Will Mata

The Royal Marines Band Service are seen during the procession for the Lying-in State of Queen (via REUTERS)
The Royal Marines Band Service are seen during the procession for the Lying-in State of Queen (via REUTERS)

Music played an important role during the procession carrying the Queen's coffin from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall where she will lie in state.

During the procession, the band of the Scots Guards and the band of the Grenadier Guards performed a number of different marches.

- Beethoven's Funeral March No 1

The stately, mournful piece was played at the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral in April 2021, as well as the procession to the lying in state of the Queen Mother and the funeral of King Edward VII.

Despite being credited to Beethoven, the march is now widely believed to have been composed by German conductor and musician Johann Heinrich Walch, who lived between 1776 and 1855.

- Beethoven's Funeral Marches No 2 and 3

These two pieces pieces are far more mournful and placid. Funeral March No 3 was played by the band of the Grenadier Guards at Philip's ceremonial royal funeral at Windsor Castle.

- Mendelssohn's Funeral March

Queen Victoria is said to have described German composer Mendelssohn, one of the most celebrated figures of the early Romantic period, as both "the greatest musical genius since Mozart" and "the most amiable man" - and his music remains common at British state and ceremonial occasions.

His funeral march is a grandiose piece that builds towards a dramatic climax.

- Chopin's Funeral March

The Polish composer and piano virtuoso's funeral march consists of the third movement of his Piano Sonata No 2.

Performed alone, the movement remains one of his most popular compositions and was performed at the graveside during his own burial in Paris in 1849.

It has also been played at the funerals of John F Kennedy, Sir Winston Churchill and Baroness Thatcher.

Procession to Westminster Hall begins

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:34 , Will Mata

Crown and Royal Standard

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:36 , Will Mata

The Queen’s coffin was draped with the Royal Standard and adorned with the glittering, priceless Imperial State Crown on a purple velvet cushion and a wreath of white flowers for the procession to the lying in state.

The flowers were white roses, spray white roses, white dahlias and foliage, including pine from the gardens at Balmoral and pittosporum, lavender and rosemary from the gardens at Windsor.

The coffin was borne on a Gun Carriage of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery - poignantly used for the coffins of the late Queen’s mother and father.

Known as the George Gun Carriage, it carried King George VI from Sandringham Church to Wolferton Station after his death in 1952 and was used in the funeral of the Queen Mother in 2002.

The crown above the coffin (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
The crown above the coffin (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The procession: Pictures

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:38 , Will Mata

Britain's King Charles III, Princess Anne , Prince Andrew and Prince Edward follow the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)
Britain's King Charles III, Princess Anne , Prince Andrew and Prince Edward follow the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)
Britain's King Charles III and Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales walk behind the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Britain's King Charles III and Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales walk behind the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Grenadier Guards flank the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)
Grenadier Guards flank the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)

The procession moves along the Mall

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:40 , Will Mata

The procession moves along the Mall (Getty Images)
The procession moves along the Mall (Getty Images)

Big Ben is tolling at one-minute intervals as the procession makes its way to the Palace of Westminster.

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:41 , Will Mata

The Elizabeth Tower also known as Big Ben (via REUTERS)
The Elizabeth Tower also known as Big Ben (via REUTERS)

Royals moving in time to funeral music

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:44 , Will Mata

Guards march as part of the procession for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral (Getty Images)
Guards march as part of the procession for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral (Getty Images)

The royals moved in time to the imposing funeral marches, in step with one another and the troops.

William stared straight ahead as he processed directly behind his father the King, in keeping with his place as the new heir to the throne.

Charles, in his Field Marshal uniform, held onto the end of his Field Marshal Baton, which was presented to him by his mother when he became Field Marshal in 2012.

March moves into Horse Guards Parade

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:47 , Will Mata

King Charles III and Princess Anne, the Princess Royal (AFP via Getty Images)
King Charles III and Princess Anne, the Princess Royal (AFP via Getty Images)

Parade moves past King George VI and the Queen Mother statues

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:49 , Will Mata

The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard with the Imperial State Crown placed on top, is carried on a horse-drawn gun carriage of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery (PA)
The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard with the Imperial State Crown placed on top, is carried on a horse-drawn gun carriage of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery (PA)

The procession poignantly passed the statue of the Queen's parents King George VI and the Queen Mother which overlooks The Mall.

The Imperial State Crown, worn by the Queen on the way back to Buckingham Palace after her Coronation, glittered in the daylight as the crowds held aloft their phones to capture the scenes.

Meanwhile, other Royals take car to Westminster

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:51 , Will Mata

The Queen Consort, the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Sussex and the Countess of Wessex have departed from Buckingham Palace by car for Westminster.

They travelled in a cortege with police escort vehicles past the Grand Entrance at around 2.45pm.

Crowds wipe away tears during procession

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:53 , Will Mata

The Duke of Wales, The Duke of Sussex, King Charles III, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex walk behind the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (PA)
The Duke of Wales, The Duke of Sussex, King Charles III, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex walk behind the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (PA)

A number of people could be seen wiping away tears as the Queen's coffin made its way down The Mall.

Members of the public held up their phones to film and take pictures of proceedings, with a number standing on their tip-toes to catch a glimpse of the procession.

Procession in Westminster

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:56 , Will Mata

The procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament (REUTERS)
The procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament (REUTERS)

March reaches Whitehall and passes the Cenotaph

Wednesday 14 September 2022 14:58 , Will Mata

King Charles III, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, Prince William, Prince Harry and Peter Phillips march forward (AP)
King Charles III, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, Prince William, Prince Harry and Peter Phillips march forward (AP)

The march continues

Wednesday 14 September 2022 15:01 , Will Mata

The guards and royals continue along Whitehall

Prince Edward, from right, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Prince William, Princess Anne and King Charles III follow the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)
Prince Edward, from right, Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Prince William, Princess Anne and King Charles III follow the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II (AP)

March approaches Parliament Square

Wednesday 14 September 2022 15:03 , Will Mata

The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard with the Imperial State Crown placed on top, is carried on a horse-drawn gun carriage of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery (AP)
The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard with the Imperial State Crown placed on top, is carried on a horse-drawn gun carriage of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery (AP)

Crowds on Parliament Street were eagerly waiting for the procession to walk past.

People could be seen standing on a raised part of the His Majesty's Revenue and Customs' building.

The windows and balconies along the street were also filled with onlookers.

March reaches conclusion

Wednesday 14 September 2022 15:06 , Will Mata

The coffin has now reached Westminster Hall and is being carried inside on the shoulders of guards.

Guards carry coffin inside Westminster Hall

Wednesday 14 September 2022 15:07 , Will Mata

Soldiers, now wihout their helmets, are carrying the coffin inside as royals follow on.

The coffin was brought into the estate via the Carriage Gates entrance and passed through New Palace Yard, which features at its centre a fountain to commemorate the Queen's Silver Jubilee.

Reminders of the Queen's long reign feature all around New Palace Yard.

In addition to the centre-piece fountain, two lampposts stand marking the Queen's Platinum Jubilee and the outdoor area is overlooked by the Elizabeth Tower in one corner, which was previously called Clock Tower but was renamed for the Diamond Jubilee.

Watch: Royals walk behind coffin

Wednesday 14 September 2022 15:08 , Will Mata

Click here to read the full blog on The Evening Standard's website