Queen Elizabeth II dies

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, has died at Balmoral in Scotland at the age of 96.

Buckingham Palace announced her death on the evening of 8 September. Her eldest son is now King Charles III.

A historic reign

The Queen came to the throne on 6 February 1952, at the age of 25, on the death of her father, King George VI. She reigned for 70 years and 214 days, longer than any other British monarch.

In June, the country celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne, with a four-day holiday weekend of events.

During her reign, there were 15 prime ministers, from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss, whom she appointed at Balmoral just two days ago.

Final hours

Earlier in the day, the palace said doctors were concerned for the Queen's health, and members of the royal family travelled to Balmoral to be with her.

King Charles III

The new King, 73, is the oldest person to accede to the British throne. In a statement, he said the death of his beloved mother was a moment of the greatest sadness for him and all members of his family.

His wife, Camilla, becomes Queen Consort. His eldest son, Prince William, becomes heir to the throne and Duke of Cornwall.

Tributes

The Prime Minister, Liz Truss, said the Queen was the rock on which modern Britain was built. Tributes have poured in from world leaders, including the American president, Joe Biden.

Crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace and Balmoral as the news spread, and a double rainbow appeared over the palace earlier in the evening.

In Birmingham, flags were lowered at the Council House, and books of condolence are to be opened.

Mourning

A period of national mourning will now be observed. The Queen's funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey, and she will lie in state in Westminster Hall so that the public can pay their respects.

Duty and service

The Queen was known for her devotion to duty and her quiet dignity. On her 21st birthday, she pledged that her whole life, whether long or short, would be devoted to the service of the people.

She was the head of the Commonwealth and the head of state of 15 countries at her death.