The State Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II

8AM, BBC1 ★★★★★ On September 8, the world heard the sad news that Queen Elizabeth II (pictured) had died. Her passing came as a shock to many, perhaps because she had been such a constant presence in our lives. Her 70-year reign began in 1952, when Britain was still dealing with post-war austerity. So, the Queen’s funeral, which takes place today, will be seen as more than just a chance for the people of Britain and the Commonwealth to say their goodbyes. It will also truly mark the end of an era.