During the run-up to the official state funeral of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, many in Highland Perthshire took the time to remember her, and celebrate her 70-year reign. Here’s just a few examples of how Highland Perthshire shared their condolences, and how the story of her passing developed.
Atholl Highlanders
Graham Jack, the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Atholl Highlanders, speaks to Alistair Smith about his memories of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and and offer some exclusive insights into her life, including when the Atholl Highlanders were invited for tea at Windsor Castle.
Political Editor, Charles Fletcher
Charles Fletcher, Scottish Parliamentary Editor, political reporter, producer, and presenter of The Week in Holyrood, speaks to Alistair Smith about Queen Elizabeth II’s life, and her irreversible impact on the landscape of Scottish politics.
The Queen Begins Her Final Journey
Alistair Smith and Nathaniel Goddard report on the journey of the Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral cortege, as it left her beloved estate of Balmoral and travelled through Scotland to Edinburgh.
Reactions from Local Figures
John Swinney, Deputy First Minister and MSP for North Perthshire
“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.
“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.”
Pete Wishart MP for Perth and North Perthshire
“I want to express my deep condolences to the Royal Family on the death of her Majesty the Queen on behalf of my constituents in Perth and North Perthshire. I know the deep appreciation there has been for her years of selfless dedication, service and devotion.
“The Queen has been a central figure to the lives of so many of us and it’s hard to imagine a future without her. She also has had a deep association and relationship with Perthshire and has visited the city on a number of occasions during her reign. Every time she has come here, crowds have welcome her and swelled to wish her well.
“We now start a new era and I know the people of Perthshire will want to wish our new king a long and happy and prosperous reign.”
Provost of Perth and Kinross Council Xander McDade
“Queen Elizabeth II served her country loyally and with unshakeable commitment to public duty as the longest serving British monarch in history. She visited Perth and Kinross many times during her reign, including to open the Queens Bridge, Perth Concert Hall, and to mark her Diamond Jubilee in the year that Perth was awarded city status. Earlier this year we were proud to host community celebrations to mark her remarkable Platinum Jubilee. Her Majesty will be remembered with fondness and respect and our heartfelt sympathies go to her family at this sad time.”
Councillor John Duff, Leader of the Scottish Conservatives on Perth and Kinross Council
“The death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been met with profound sadness throughout Scotland, the United Kingdom and across the world. The late Queen Elizabeth was a most remarkable woman, who dedicated her whole life to the service of her people and touched many of our hearts during the seventy glorious years of her reign. She was a most devoted public servant, a woman of deep faith, a highly respected leader and a wise and much-loved monarch. The loss of our Queen will be felt deeply by all of us. I am sure the Royal Family will take some comfort that the Queen passed away at Balmoral, a place very dear to her heart and where she felt completely at home and at peace. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Royal Family in this moment of national grief. God Save the King!”
Councillor Claire McClaren, Liberal Democrat Bailee
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. Throughout the 70 years of her reign, she carried out her role with immense dignity, humanity, compassion and pride an example of dedication to service which is rare. Her inspirational character will be mourned by many.”