The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Cinemas, Royal Legion clubs and churches to screen state funeral
While many venues are preparing to close on Monday for the Queen’s funeral, others are planning to bring the community together with public screenings.
Arrangements for a state funeral have been put in place and the day has been declared a bank holiday by King Charles.
It will be a historic moment as the nation comes together to mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for more than 70 years.
While supermarkets and stores will close to the public on Monday, certain places will open their doors for public screenings of the funeral.
Cinemas
Vue Cinemas have announced that a special screening will take place at many of its sites including in Inverness and Aberdeen.
The firm’s website says that seats are free but require a reservation in advance and that the only retail offering will be a complimentary bottle of water.
The screening will begin at 10am on Monday.
A statement on the website said: “The Queen was renowned for her support of the UK’s creative industries, having been patron of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, the Royal Variety Charity and the Cinema and Television Benevolent Fund.
“Over the years, the Queen visited countless film organisations, supporting their efforts by highlighting the work they do.”
It has also been confirmed that Arc Cinema in Peterhead will also be screening the Queen’s funeral.
Royal British Legion Several branches of the Royal British Legion
Scotland have also confirmed they intend to open their doors to the public and invite people to watch the funeral.
The Queen was the patron of the Royal British Legion for more than 70 years, beginning in February 1952.
Branches in Dufftown and Kirkwall among others are planning to offer food and drink to people coming to pay their respects.
The branches opening their doors are:
• Inverness – 17 King Street
• Old Meldrum – Market Square
• Kirkwall – Junction Road
• Dufftown – 50 Balvenie Street
• Nairn – 3 Cawdor Street.
Dr Claire Armstrong, Legion Scotland’s chief executive, said: “Royal British Legion Scotland clubs across the nation are places of membership and comradeship for our veterans and the wider community.
“Those Legion Scotland clubs that will be open on Monday are welcoming their members and all those who wish to gather, to pay their respects and reflect on the remarkable service and dedication of our late sovereign and patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”
Churches
It was announced that Fettercairn Church in Laurencekirk will also welcome people who want to watch in a “warm, meditative place”.
The Rev Brian Smith said: “This is not the time for closed churches. We are choosing to be open rather than closed.
“We are not making any statements about the monarchy, just opening the church for a national event.”