Service and devotion is remembered
Those gathered for the meeting of Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Council on Thursday evening last week observed a minute’s silence as a mark of respect following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
A Union flag was flown at half-mast in the Wellmeadow in further tribute, while church bells could be heard ringing out across east Perthshire at noon on Friday in honour of a figurehead who has served the country for 70 years.
A book of condolence was opened at Perth and Kinross Council’s headquarters at 2 High Street in the Fair City on Friday, with other books also available to be signed during normal opening hours at community venues across the region from yesterday – including at Blairgowrie Community Campus.
Perth and Kinross Lord-Lieutenant Stephen Leckie said:“There is a deep sense of loss and a deep sadness.
“I met her a number of times and it was such a privilege to have, and to have had, conversations with her.
“The thing that was striking about her was her glistening blue eyes and her smile. She was an easy person to chat to, as all the Royal family are.”
Mr Leckie continued:“She was a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, she is the longest-serving monarch in Britain ever.
“She said all these years ago when she was crowned in 1953:‘I will give my life to this job’, and she has done. Right up until the very last, she gave her life.
“Isn’t that just incredible? That is just one example of the person she was. She did everything she could to dedicate her life to the people and she is the mostly widely travelled head of state.
“To stick to your word for over 70 years – even to the day before you die – is remarkable and commendable.”
Perth and Kinross Provost Xander McDade said: “Queen Elizabeth II served her country loyally and with unshakeable commitment to public duty.”
Perthshire North MSP and Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, said:“For over seven decades, the Queen was a constant, stabilising presence in our lives.
“Indeed, for the vast majority of us, she is the only head of state that we have ever known.
“Her passing is a moment of profound sadness, and I share the sense of loss and sorrow that is being felt across Scotland and beyond.
“At this time, it is right that we remember and pay tribute to Her Majesty’s tireless work ethic, dedication to her role and unerring sense of duty.
“She has been a source of comfort for us during some of the UK’s darkest days, but has also shared with us in great moments of hope and celebration.
“Our lives are richer for her contribution to public life.” He continued: “I am thankful for the conversations and interactions that I was privileged to have with Her Majesty over the years.
“Now more than ever, I will cherish these memories and remember with fondness her warmth, along with the wisdom that she imparted upon me.
“I would like to extend my sympathy to the entire Royal Family, who will most acutely feel this loss.
“I hope that the outpouring of love and respect from all over the world will prove to be a source of comfort to them during this difficult time.
“I extend my good wishes to His Majesty the King.” Perth and North Perthshire SNP MP Pete Wishart said:“I want to express my deep condolence to the Royal Family on the death of Her Majesty the Queen on behalf of my constituents.
“I know the deep appreciation there is for her years of selfless dedication, service and devotion.
“The Queen has been a central figure in the lives of so many of us and it is hard to imagine a future without her.”
The UK government has announced that a public holiday has been confirmed for Monday next week, which is the day Her Majesty’s state funeral will take place.
It is to be held at Westminster Abbey in London.