Mayor of Test Valley and the leader of Test Valley Borough Council have paid tribute to the late Queen following her passing at the age of 96 in Balmoral Castle.

Mayor, Councillor Alan Dowden, said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II following 70 years of loyal, dedicated and unwavering commitment to her country.

“Throughout seven decades of change, both culturally and economically, the devotion that she gave to the Crown and steadfastness to the Commonwealth was incomparable. As was the love and devotion she showed to her family, including her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had deep links to Test Valley, spending her honeymoon at Broadlands Estate in Romsey, and so many in the borough will feel a sense of personal loss at Her Majesty’s passing.

“On behalf of the residents of Test Valley, I wish to convey my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved her.

“As a sign of deep respect and gratitude to Her Service, we will fly all our flags at half-mast.”

TVBC leader Phil North said everyone is “feeling a profound sense of loss”.

He added: "I’m extremely saddened by the news that Her Majesty The Queen has passed away. Her life was one of unwavering service. To our country, the Commonwealth and to us all. It is telling that just two days ago, despite poor health, she appointed her 15th Prime Minister - such was her sense of duty and commitment to her coronation vows.

"This is a deeply moving moment in our nation’s history - and I’m sure I speak for everyone who lives in Test Valley by saying that our thoughts are with the rest of the Royal Family at this awfully sad time. We will be lowering the Union flag to half-mast on all of our council buildings tonight as we embark on a period of national mourning.

"For the vast majority of us The Queen has been a constant presence in our lives. Giving us all the stability of a head of state above party politics - and making us all proud to be British. Tonight though, I think we all just feeling a profound sense of loss.

"As this great Elizabethan age sadly draws to a close, let us also pray for the new monarch and the heavy burden of responsibility that he is about to bear. God Save The King."