Minute’s silence across the country on eve of the funeral

A NATIONWIDE minute’s silence will be held to mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II at 8pm on Sunday, Downing Street has announced.

Britons have been urged to share in the “national moment of reflection”, be it at home or at community events that could be held to mark the moment.

Those living abroad are also being encouraged to take part at 8pm in their own time zone.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “At 8pm on Sunday Sep 18 – the night before the state funeral – there will be a one-minute silence where the public are invited to come together and observe a national moment of reflection to mourn and reflect on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II.

“The silence can be marked privately at home on your own or with friends and neighbours, out on your doorstep or street with neighbours, or at any locally arranged community events and vigils.

“We encourage local community groups, clubs and other organisations to mark this moment of reflection. And if you are overseas, people are encouraged to mark the silence at their local time.

“The shared national moment of reflection is an opportunity for everyone across the UK to mark the death of Her Majesty and we will set out details of where the Prime Minister will mark it closer to that time.”

The spokesman also suggested commuters who work in London may want to “change their working patterns accordingly” as the capital will be “extremely busy” for the Queen’s lying in state.