People throughout the United Kingdom are being invited to take part in a national moment of reflection on Sunday the 18th of September to remember Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen's state funeral will be held on Monday the 19th of September at 11am, which has been designated as an additional bank holiday so that people can pay their respects. Before this, a national moment of reflection will be held at 8pm on Sunday the 18th of September, when everyone in the UK will be invited to observe a one-minute silence.

Communities may choose to organise their own gatherings in streets, parks or on village greens for the moment of reflection. Alternatively, families may wish to step outside their homes to observe the silence at 8pm, as they did when showing support for the NHS and key workers during the pandemic.

Councillor Lucy Stephenson, Leader of Rutland County Council, said: "The Queen was steadfast in her duty throughout the entirety of her life, providing constancy through 70 years of change. The national moment of reflection on Sunday evening is another opportunity for us to remember Her late Majesty with affection and gratitude and silently give thanks for her unwavering devotion – both to our country and its people."

Books of condolence in memory of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth will remain open at Oakham Castle until 4.00pm on Tuesday the 20th of September. The Castle will be closed on Monday the 19th of September for state funeral. 

A digital book of condolence remains available on The Royal Family website. All are welcome to sign and show their respects.