The Chairman of BCP Council's message of condolence

Councillor Nigel Hedges, The Chairman of BCP Council has expressed his sadness at the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

The Chairman said: “The people of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and all of us at the Council will mourn the loss of Her Majesty The Queen and I know that their thoughts are with the Royal Family at this exceptionally sad time. 

“We share fond memories of Her Majesty’s visits to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, 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 visited Christchurch Priory and contemporary photographs show The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh being driven along the High Street which is filled with huge crowds.

“In 1969 she opened Poole’s new hospital and in 1995 awarded Poole’s Ryvita factory a Royal Warrant. The 2004 visit that began in Bournemouth continued with a visit to Poole’s Lighthouse and tour the new RNLI training college. Thousands lined Poole Quay as the royals left on a lifeboat.

“Many local people will have attended these historic events and will treasure their own recollections of those days.”

The Leader of BCP Council's message of condolence

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.”