The funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, as it happened: Every cheer, every tear... moment by moment on historic day that truly was the end of an era

The day began with the last of the ordinary Britons who had queued through the night to pay their respects to the Queen filing out of Westminster Hall. 

Then at, 6.30am, the four-day period of lying-in-state came to an end and Her Majesty's coffin was moved later in the morning in a majestic procession to Westminster Abbey.

King Charles III led his four siblings, the Queen's grandsons and other members of his family in walking behind the state gun carriage carrying the Queen that was being pulled by Royal Navy sailors. 

The Duke of York - wearing a morning suit after being stripped of his titles - was visibly emotional, signifying the pain of his and his family's crushing grief.    

Once at the Abbey, the Queen's state funeral - an event not seen inside that historic church since Winston Churchill's in 1965 - took place in front of her family, closest aides and nearly all of the world's leaders and senior royals. 

As the Archbishop of Canterbury hailed the Queen's 'abundant life and loving service', there were more tears, this time from King Charles. 

Then came the procession from the Abbey to Wellington Arch, and then on to Windsor Castle. An estimated 2million people had gathered along the route or were watching on big screens.

Crowds threw roses in front of the Queen's coffin and cheered her for the final time as the state hearse drove from West London to Berkshire, with even the Queen's beloved fell pony, Emma, standing by as her coffin was driven past her in Windsor.

Then, once in St George's Chapel, the final televised service took place in front of Her Majesty's family and aides.

In a highly symbolic moment, the Imperial State Crown and the Orb and Sceptre - those potent icons of royal authority - were removed from the Queen's coffin.

Her Majesty's coffin then descended into the royal vault, to the lament of a lone piper that prompted further tears from her eldest son.

Later, in a service that was entirely private, the Queen was laid to rest in the King George VI Memorial Chapel - an annex to St George's - alongside her husband Prince Philip.

So too was she finally reunited with her father King George VI, mother Queen Elizabeth and sister Princess Margaret. 

Below, recap MailOnline's liveblog from the historic day: 

  • Matthew Lodge

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  • L Dollimore

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  • Arthur Parashar

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  • Mark Duell

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  • Tara Cobham

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  • Jack Wright

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00:01
'Diabolical communication' at train stations has left many stranded in Reading with some forced to get taxis to Birmingham

Earlier disruption which resulted in mourners missing the Queen's funeral has spilled over into this evening.

Problems in and out of London Paddington have left many passengers stranded in Reading due to the issues on the lines.

There are reportedly long queues of people trying to get on to services back  into London while others facing cancellations as they try to head further west.

Some living further afield have been forced to get taxis as far as Birmingham as a result, with station staff helping order them.

One woman, who was visibly distressed by the disruption and the prospect of getting stuck hours from home on her own overnight, said her journey in and out of London on Monday was set to total around 10 hours as opposed to the usual three and resulted in her missing the Queen's funeral and procession which she had come to see.

Another passenger said: 'The communication has been diabolical. People have been told to get off trains that were actually running and change services to get to different destinations, only to find that those trains were then cancelled.

'There doesn't seem to have been any forward thinking as to what would happen in the evening, despite the problems going on all day.'

Train delays at Paddington earlier today
23:34
The big tidy gets underway in central London

A massive clean up operation is currently underway in central London as organisers tidy up the streets after the Queen's funeral today.

Waste disposal and construction crews are wasting no time getting things back to normal just hours after millions of people lined the procession route.

23:29
Relief as huge security operation surrounding funeral goes to plan

Scotland Yard's new Commissioner breathed a sigh of relief yesterday after successfully mounting the biggest security operation in British history.

In an unprecedented joint operation, more than 15,000 officers and 1,500 soldiers formed a six-mile wide ring of steel around central London for the Queen's funeral.

Rooftop police snipers, SAS teams and anti-drone technology were deployed to protect the skies above – with officers having to stop 18 people attempting to fly the technology over the capital.

The funeral is the first major test for Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley – who has only been in office a week.

You can read the full article on MailOnline below:

23:13
Kirsty Young praised for emotional BBC monologue in tribute to the Queen

Kirsty Young has been praised for her reading of an emotional monologue during the BBC's coverage of the Queen's funeral.

'She made history, she was history. Queen Elizabeth is gone, but she will surely never be forgotten,' said Young in a parting speech as Her Majesty was laid to rest in Windsor.

A 'veil of sorrow' covering the nation in recent days had been brightened by the day giving people a chance to celebrate Her Majesty's reign one final time, she said.

Never was a person 'truer to their word', said Young, recalling Queen Elizabeth II's pledge at the beginning of her reign that she would serve the British public whether her life be 'long or short'.

If 'grief is the price we pay for love' then 'the weight of our collective sorrow is testament to the depth of affection in which she is held,' Young concluded.

You can read the full article on MailOnline below:

23:10
The King's first test is to resolve this family crisis, writes RICHARD KAY

King Charles has an in-tray bursting with challenging demands, from shoring up a Commonwealth to holding together a fractious United Kingdom, writes the Daily Mail's Richard Kay.

But his first test, and one which may define his reign, is to resolve a family crisis that caused his mother so much heartache in her last years.

No wonder at times yesterday his face seemed so bleak that not even the consoling presence of his beloved wife the Queen Consort could ease his sorrowing.

He knows that his role as head of state does not confer upon him an automatic right to be the most popular member of the Royal Family; he knows that affection has to be earned. 

You can read the full article on MailOnline below:

22:46
WATCH: The Queen's funeral was watched by people all over the world
22:23

The Royal Family opted to use a previously unseen photograph of the Queen moments after they confirmed that she had been buried alongside her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

The picture was accompanied with a quote from Shakespeare's Hamlet: 'May flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest.'

The quote was referenced by King Charles in a televised address following the passing of his mother.

22:17
Met Police say 'nothing can compare' to the 'largest policing operation' seen in force's history

The Queen's funeral has been described as the 'largest policing operation' in the Met Police's history.

As up to 2million people descended on the capital, officers faced the mammoth task of keeping crowds, royalty and world leaders safe.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy said 'nothing can compare' with the 'hugely complex' task, describing it as the 'largest policing operation' in the Met's history.

Monday signalled the 'final and most complex phase' of the operation after the death of the Queen, he said.

It comes even after the Platinum Jubilee weekend in June as well as the London 2012 Olympics, which saw up to 10,000 officers deployed.

Former counter-terrorism police chief Nick Aldworth said it was 'probably the biggest operation that we're likely to mount in the UK'.

It comes at a time when the country's terrorism threat level stands at 'substantial', meaning an attack is 'likely'.

As reported moments ago, 67 people have been arrested following the operation since the Queen's death.

22:10

The clean-up operation has begun following the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, as crowd control barriers were removed and council workers cleared litter.

In Westminster, central London, street cleansing vehicles and council workers were seen as teams swung into action to clean up litter and remove sand that had been spread on roads. 

The clean-up also began along the Long Walk at Windsor Castle as workers picked up litter and crowd control barriers started to be removed following the committal service.

Up to two million people are thought to have lined the funeral procession route on the national Bank Holiday, created especially for the public to be able to say a final farewell to the Queen.

Read the full story below:

22:00
Met Police say 67 people were arrested during operation following Queen's death

As of 5pm on Monday, the Metropolitan Police have revealed that a total of 67 people were arrested as part of the force's overall operation following the death of the Queen.

As we reported last Friday, this included the arrest of a man who attempted to grab the Queen's coffin while she was lying in state at Westminster Hall.

There were also arrests made of anti-monarchy protesters.

King Charles took time to thank emergency services for their work during the build up to his mother's funeral which was one of the largest international events ever.

21:53
Queen's burial brings a close to a day of events in honour of Her Majesty

The Queen has been buried alongside her husband which marks a day of events to honour the longest-serving British monarch.

Thousands of world leaders and foreign dignataries, including US President Biden, came together to support the Royal Family at Westminster Abbey for the Queen's funeral service.

Her coffin was then taken through London before it made its way to Windsor for a committal service.

The televised service captured the moment that the Queen was lowered into the Royal Vault at St George's Chapel.

But, in an intimate, family-only moment, the Queen was laid to rest next to her beloved late husband at the chapel away from the cameras.

21:35

The Royal Family has posted a photograph of the Queen walking in a field of heather as they paid tribute to her.

The quote they chose is from a famous Shakespearean line that King Charles referenced following his mother's death in a television address.

21:26
Emotional broadcasters pay tribute to 'loving' and 'dedicated' Queen

The Queen's funeral left  international broadcasters become visibly moved during their coverage of the historic event.

Global outlets from the US, Canada and Australia have all provided daily updates and live coverage of the events leading up to the funeral on Monday.

Despite time differences, several also provided full, live coverage of the funeral itself, broadcast for viewers across the pond.

Wrapping up coverage of the day's events, MSNBC correspondent Andrea Mitchell was audibly emotional during her sign off.

'Can I just say, well done Elizabeth R. Well done,' she said, her voicing trembling as she held her colleagues' hands.

Clarissa Ward, CNN chief international correspondent, said that the atmosphere in London throughout the day had been 'sombre' and 'one of reverence'.

'It's really the culmination, isn't it?' she said, during her own live coverage of the coffin's transfer to Windsor.

'It's been ten days of mourning, ten days of people trying to grapple with a new reality of, like, in the United Kingdom without the Queen.'

Vladimir Duthiers, of CBS, praised the Queen's 'unwavering duty' from the first days of her reign 'until her very last'.

'Her dedication to duty, her dedication to this kingdom - it never wavered.

'Nor did her love for her people, woven into the cloth of her life, who turned out in the thousands to say their final goodbyes with resplendent pageantry.'

21:02

The Royal Family has announced that the Queen has been buried alongside her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, at the King George VI Memorial Chapel at Windsor Castle.

The official website of the royal family said a private burial took place in The King George VI Memorial Chapel this evening, conducted by the Dean of Windsor.

'The Queen was buried together with the Duke of Edinburgh, at The King George VI Memorial Chapel,' the statement said.

20:49
Britons left stunned and confused as second verse of national anthem is sung at Queen's funeral

Mourners across the nation were left stunned as they found out the national anthem does in fact have a second verse.

Britons took to social media to share their confusion as those inside St George's Chapel broke into a second verse.

For anyone else confused, the congregation sang:

God save our gracious King!
Long live our noble King!
God save the King!
Send him victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us,
God save the King.

Thy choicest gifts in store
On him be pleased to pour,
Long may he reign.
May he defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the King.

20:43
WATCH: Queen's corgis and pony await their loving owner's coffin at Windsor Castle
20:13
WATCH: Meghan sweetly smiles at Princes Charlotte after funeral procession
20:13
Now for the great rush home: Up to two million mourners attending Queen's funeral pack out stations

Tens of thousands of mourners who travelled to London for the Queen's funeral face long queues for trains get home after all services from Paddington were cancelled.

People seeking to leave London from Paddington station were advised to instead travel to Reading via Waterloo but pictures show extremely long queues for these services.

No trains are expected to run to or from London Paddington, South Wales and the West of England for the rest of the day, with lines between the station and Reading having been blocked since 6.30am due to two miles of damaged overhead electric wires.

Engineers from Network Rail are trying to repair the damage at Hayes and Harlington station, near Heathrow airport.

Great Western Railway, Heathrow Express and Elizabeth line services have all been affected and disruption could run into tomorrow.

Read more here: 

20:11
Clean up operation begins along the Long Walk to Windsor Castle

Almost as soon as the funeral finished, a team of workers started to take apart and clean up the long walk to Windsor Castle. 

20:07

Prince Harry was seen puffing his cheeks this evening as he got into a car with his wife, Meghan, following an emotional day which saw Queen Elizabeth II finally laid to rest with her beloved husband Prince Philip.

The Duke of Sussex and other royals, including King Charles III and the Queen Consort, Camilla, were pictured leaving St George's Chapel in Windsor late this afternoon after a moving committal service for the late monarch.

In what has been the longest of days for the royal family, relatives of the Queen went back to Windsor Castle for some rest before returning to St George's Chapel for a private burial service at 7.30pm tonight.

It is one of the only parts of today that will not be televised, with billions of people around the world thought to have seen some part of today's processions and services in honour of Her Majesty.

At the start of the day members of the Royal Family - including Prince George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, seven, - and thousands of world leaders and foreign dignitaries congregated at Westminster Abbey for the late monarch's funeral service.

Harry, who is mourning his beloved grandmother, was visibly emotional during the procession and inside the church, as was his wife the Duchess of Sussex, who was seen wiping away tears at the ceremony.

Later the Duke was seen walking solemnly on the grass outside St George's Chapel in Windsor ahead of the Queen's committal service, and speaking with his aunt Princess Anne and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.

A smaller, more private burial service was scheduled for 7.30pm tonight, in which the Queen's family will be given the chance to pay their respects and mourn her passing away from the public's gaze.

Read more here:

20:00
19:59
Coffin marked with RIP British Empire thrown into Dublin river in protest against monarchy

A coffin marked RIP British Empire has been thrown into Dublin's main city centre river.

The incident came during a protest march against the monarchy which took place in the Irish capital on the day that the funeral for the late Queen Elizabeth II took place in London.

Anti Imperialist Action Ireland said it was the recreation of an action by former socialist leader James Connolly in Dublin in 1897 during a visit to the city by Queen Victoria.

Irish President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Micheal Martin were among world leaders who attended the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in London.

The march in Dublin on Monday afternoon was described as being 'against the grovelling worship of the English Monarchy by the Free State ruling class'.

Protesters also objected to the flying of the Irish flag at half mast on the day of the Queen's funeral.

19:47
WATCH: Prince Harry puffs his cheeks after the Queen's funeral service
19:33
King Charles and his family lay The Queen to rest at private family chapel on Windsor estate, beside her beloved Prince Philip: Monarch will scatter earth over his mother's coffin

King Charles and the royal family are burying the Queen with her late husband Prince Philip in the family chapel at Windsor at 7.30pm tonight. 

Her Majesty is being laid to rest beside the Duke of Edinburgh in the King George VI Memorial Chapel this evening - an annex to the main chapel where her mother and father were buried, along with the ashes of Princess Margaret.

Philip's coffin will move from the royal vault to the memorial chapel to join the Queen's.

19:28
The world mourns The Queen: Well-wishers in Hong Kong, Nepal and Kenya light candles and pray for Her Majesty on the day of her state funeral in London
19:18
Small crowd of mourners forms outside Windsor Castle's Henry VIII Gate ahead of private royal family burial of The Queen

A small crowd has formed outside Windsor Castle's Henry VIII Gate ahead of the private burial of the Queen attended by her family.

The town has largely emptied since the end of the procession down Long Walk, leaving a sleepy, solemn atmosphere.

Dozens of people are still taking photos by the castle as the sunset lights up the walls and glowing clouds beyond. Some are trying to get a glimpse through the gates into the castle courtyard beyond while others are on the street having a drink.

19:07
Pop legend Elton John recalls how he danced with The Queen to 'Rock Around the Clock' at Windsor Castle in touching tribute to Her Majesty

Sir Elton John has recalled the 'joyous and humbling experiences' of meeting the Queen - including the time he danced to 'Rock Around the Clock' with Her Majesty at Windsor Castle.

The musical megastar said he would fondly remember moments 'out of the public eye' and praised the Queen for serving with 'grace and dedication'.

'Today I'll be joining the rest of the world in remembering Her Majesty The Queen,' Sir Elton wrote, sharing a black and white photograph of them.

'My own memories of her are filled with joy and admiration. The Queen honoured me with a CBE, a knighthood and the Companion of Honour. I was lucky enough to perform at three of her Jubilees.

'They were always joyous and humbling experiences. But it was the moments out of the public eye that I will most fondly remember her for; dancing together to 'Rock Around the Clock' at Windsor Castle or experiencing her great wit, warmth and humour first hand. She served with grace and dedication, and she will be sorely missed.'

19:04
Commonwealth country Antigua and Barbuda honour The Queen on the day of her state funeral... while their republican Prime Minister threatens to hold a referendum to ditch The Crown as head of state
18:45
Edinburgh mourns The Queen: Scots watch state funeral on large TV set up outside Palace of Holyroodhouse as the Elizabethan era comes to an end
18:41
Thaw or still at war? Harry and Meghan joined senior royals in grief over The Queen's death, renewing hopes of a cessation to hostilities in the House of Windsor

Despite a turbulent relationship over the past few years, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and other members of the royal family have been united in grief after the Queen's death.

This has prompted questions over the possibility of a reconciliation between Harry, his brother the Prince of Wales and their father King Charles III.

Although the duke has stepped back from royal duties and was not permitted to wear uniform on Monday, he took his place alongside William during their late grandmother's state funeral.

Harry and Meghan also joined the group of royals who made their way to Windsor and took part in the committal service and interment, which will see the Queen laid to rest alongside the brothers' grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh.

18:38
The Commonwealth commemorates The Queen: Service is held in Canadian church while the eyes of the world are fixed on London for Her Majesty's state funeral
18:35
Leaders of EU, Pakistan, South Korea, Lithuania and Bermuda sign book of condolence at Church House after The Queen's state funeral
18:13
Cheers to you, Ma'am: Britons on bank holiday toast The Queen on the day of her state funeral (and one Twitter user suggests the eight pallbearers who carried her coffin will want a pint too!)
18:03
Revealed: The 55 members of the royal family at The Queen's state funeral who did NOT form part of the main procession

Dozens of members of the royal family attended the Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey.

The 55 who attended, but did not form part of the main procession, are:

- The Duke of Kent - Edward, the Queen's cousin.

- Prince Michael of Kent - the Queen's cousin.

- Princess Beatrice - daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York and granddaughter of the Queen.

- Princess Eugenie - daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York and granddaughter of the Queen.

- Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi - husband of Princess Beatrice.

- Jack Brooksbank - husband of Princess Eugenie.

- Sarah, Duchess of York - mother of princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

- Lady Louise Windsor - daughter of the Earl and Countess of Wessex and granddaughter of the Queen.

- Viscount Severn - James, son of the Earl and Countess of Wessex and the Queen's youngest grandson.

- Zara and Mike Tindall - daughter of the Princess Royal and Captain Mark Phillips and granddaughter of the Queen, and her husband Mike.

- Viscount Linley - Charles Armstrong-Jones, son of David Armstrong-Jones and Serena Stanhope, the Earl and Countess of Snowdon, and great nephew of the Queen.

- Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones - daughter of the Earl and Countess of Snowdon and great niece of the Queen.

- Lady Sarah and Daniel Chatto - Princess Margaret's daughter and niece of the Queen, and her husband Daniel.

- Samuel Chatto - son of the Chattos.

- Arthur Chatto - son of the Chattos.

- The Duchess of Gloucester - Birgitte van Deurs, wife of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, the Queen's cousin.

- Earl and Countess of Ulster - Alexander Windsor, son of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and his wife Claire Booth.

- Lord Culloden - Xan Windsor, son of the Earl and Countess of Ulster.

- Lady Cosima Windsor - second child of the Earl and Countess of Ulster.

- Lady Davina Lewis - elder daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

- Senna Lewis - daughter of Lady Davina Lewis and granddaughter of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

- Lady Rose and George Gilman - daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and her husband.

- Lyla Gilman - daughter of Lady Rose Gilman.

- Earl and Countess of St Andrews - George Philip Nicholas Windsor, son of the Duke of Kent, and his wife Sylvana Tomaselli.

- Lord Downpatrick - son of the Earl and Countess of St Andrews.

- Lady Marina-Charlotte Windsor and Lady Amelia Windsor - children of the Earl and Countess of St Andrews and granddaughters of the Duke of Kent.

- Lady Helen and Timothy Taylor - daughter of the Duke of Kent and her husband.

- Columbus Taylor, Cassius Taylor, Estella Taylor and Elosie Taylor - sons and daughters of Lady Helen Taylor.

- Lord Nicholas Windsor - son of the Duke of Kent.

- Albert and Leopold Windsor - grandsons of the Duke of Kent.

- Princess Michael of Kent - married to the Queen's cousin Prince Michael of Kent.

- Lord and Lady Frederick Windsor - son of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and his wife, better known as Peep Show actress Sophie Winkleman.

- Lady Gabriella and Thomas Kingston - daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, and her husband.

- Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy - one of the Queen's cousins.

- James and Julia Ogilvy - son of Princess Alexandra and his wife Julia.

- Alexander Ogilvy - son of James and Julia Ogilvy.

- Flora and Timothy Vesterberg - daughter of James and Julia Ogilvy and her husband.

- Marina Ogilvy - daughter of Princess Alexandra.

- Christian Mowatt - son of Marina Ogilvy, grandson of Princess Alexandra

- Zenouska Mowatt - daughter of Marina Ogilvy, granddaughter of Princess Alexandra.

18:02
Flames sprout out of the top of a tuba as a musician plays for passersby in Charing Cross
17:52
What happens next? The Queen's close family including King Charles will attend private ceremony at family chapel at 7.30pm

With no cameras present, King Charles and the royal family will gather for a private interment at 7.30pm.

Both the coffins of The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will be brought up from the Royal Vault and then transferred to the family chapel.

Overnight, the name of the Queen and her husband will, according to previous plans, be added to the chapel in a specially created ledger stone: a typically simple and unfussy memorial to the Queen, who had both qualities in abundance.

17:47
The Queen's funeral, from SPACE: Satellite photos show crowds which gathered at Buckingham Palace, The Mall and Horse Guards Parade for solemn procession from Westminster Abbey to Wellington Arch
17:43
Queen Elizabeth II's reign symbolically comes to an end with ceremonial 'breaking of the wand'

An ancient tradition known as the 'breaking of the wand' took place today to symbolically mark the end of the Queen's reign as St George's Chapel burst into a rendition of 'God Save the Queen'.

In a moving ceremony, the Lord Chamberlain - who oversees much of the royal household - snapped his Wand of Office, before placing it to the Queen's coffin before it was lowered into the Royal Vault.

The breaking of the staff, which was traditionally used to discipline noisy courtiers, signifies the end of his service to the Queen. This was the first time it has ever been televised.

17:40
Ancient tradition of Crown, Orb and Sceptre being removed from The Queen's coffin before Her Majesty's burial, in pictures
17:36
Northern Ireland salutes you Ma'am: Mourners in Belfast gather outside to watch The Queen's state funeral and burial on outdoor TV
17:31
Sussexes leave Windsor Castle: Harry and Meghan wear sorrow on their faces after duke's beloved 'Grannie' was buried alongside his grandfather Philip
17:28
Now mourners battle to leave London: Huge queues in Waterloo station after Paddington services stopped as rail bosses face strain amid huge surge in passengers for The Queen's state funeral

Mourners who travelled to London for the Queen's funeral face more travel chaos as trains from a major station continues to be disrupted.

No trains have been able to enter or leave Paddington station, west London, since 6.30am today because of damage to overhead electric wires near Hayes and Harlington station.

Services run by GWR, Heathrow Express and the Elizabeth line have been disrupted all day.

17:25
Mourners leave Windsor's Long Walk in their droves after The Queen's coffin was carried to St George's Chapel and buried alongside her husband, parents and sister

Most people among the huge crowd which had assembled on the Long Walk in Windsor have departed following the end of the Queen's public funeral procession.

Those remaining are watching black and white archive footage of the Queen from decades ago played on large screens with classical music in the background.

The surrounding streets are filled with people streaming out of the Berkshire town after a day described by many as emotional.

17:21
'They did their country proud': Eight young pallbearers are praised for their composure while carrying the Queen's coffin up the steep steps at Windsor as the world held its breath

Pallbearers from the British Army who weeks ago were serving in Iraq have today been celebrated for their role in carrying the Queen's coffin - with admirers across Britain declaring: 'They have done our nation and Her Majesty proud.'

The world held its breath as the eight soldiers from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards inched their way meticulously up the steps of Westminster Abbey, carrying the 96-year-old's monarch on their shoulders.

Of the team of guards taking part in the historic spectacle, five are understood to have been flown back from a deployment in Iraq in the hours after it was announced the Queen had died, on Thursday, September 8.

And with the eyes of an estimated 4.1billion people from across the globe on them, the unnamed soldiers performed faultlessly, garnering the admiration of people across social media, including celebrities, who praised their professionalism.

17:08
Touching moment Prince George looks to his father William as the future Kings watch The Queen's coffin being lowered into the Royal Vault
17:00
King Charles III and mourning Harry and Meghan leave St George's Chapel after The Queen is seen in public for the last time

The King, accompanied by the Queen Consort, was driven from St George's Chapel after thanking those who had conducted the service.

The Prince and Princess of Wales left the chapel by car with their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex departed separately shortly after.

16:54
Grief is etched across King Charles III's face as the national anthem rings out across St George's Chapel

The King appeared emotional as those in attendance at St George's Chapel sang the national anthem.

Charles sat in the same seat the Queen had sat in for the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral during the Covid-19 pandemic.

16:48
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen's coffin is lowered into The Royal Vault

The Queen's coffin has been lowered into the Royal Vault of St George's Chapel.

As the coffin was lowered, the Dean of Windsor recited Psalm 103, which includes the traditional line: 'Go forth upon thy journey from this world, O Christian soul'.

He also offered the commendation - a prayer in which the deceased is entrusted to God's mercy. The Garter King of Arms then pronounced the styles and titles of the Queen.

16:43
Meghan Markle arriving at St George's Chapel for The Queen's burial
16:41
Dean of Windsor gives reading from bible passage also read at funerals of The Queen's father King George VI in 1952 and grandfather King George V in 1936

The Dean of Windsor, the Rev David Conner, gave a reading from Revelation 21.1-7 during the service.

The same passage was read at the funerals of the Queen's father King George VI in 1952 and her grandparents, King George V in 1936, and Queen Mary in 1953.

The reading ends with: 'I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.'

16:39
BREAKING NEWS: The Crown, Orb and Sceptre are removed from The Queen's coffin before Lord Chamberlain's Wand of Office is snapped in half

The Imperial State Crown, Orb and Sceptre, have been removed from the Queen's coffin and placed onto the altar of St George's Chapel by the Dean of Windsor.

The final hymn was sung as the King prepared to drape the Queen's Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on the coffin.

Once in place, the colour was then accompanied by the Lord Chamberlain's Wand of Office, which he symbolically broke. The purpose of breaking the wand is to create a symmetry with the three Instruments of State that had been removed from the coffin.

16:35
Prince George and Princess Charlotte arriving at Windsor Castle with their mother The Princess of Wales and grandmother Queen Consort Camilla ahead of The Queen's committal service
16:31
Congregation sings at The Queen's committal service in St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle
16:27
'She has given us confidence to face the future, as she did, with courage and with hope': Dean of Windsor opens committal service as he pays tribute to 'our sister Elizabeth'

Giving the Bidding, the Dean of Windsor, the Rev David Conner, said: 'We have come together to commit into the hands of God the soul of his servant Queen Elizabeth.

'Here, in St George's Chapel, where she so often worshipped, we are bound to call to mind someone whose uncomplicated yet profound Christian Faith bore so much fruit. Fruit, in a life of unstinting service to the Nation, the Commonwealth and the wider world, but also (and especially to be remembered in this place) in kindness, concern and reassuring care for her family and friends and neighbours.'

Referring to a 'rapidly changing and frequently troubled world', the Dean praised the late Queen's 'calm and dignified presence'.

He said the monarch's disposition 'has given us confidence to face the future, as she did, with courage and with hope'.

Concluding the Bidding, he said: 'As, with grateful hearts, we reflect on these and all the many other ways in which her long life has been a blessing to us, we pray that God will give us grace to honour her memory by following her example, and that, with our sister Elizabeth, at the last, we shall know the joys of life eternal.'

16:21
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen's committal service begins with choir singing song sung at her husband Prince Philip's funeral last year

The service has begun with the choir singing Psalm 121, set to music by Sir Henry Walford Davies, who previously served as an organist of the chapel.

Over a number of years, the Queen was involved in discussions about the order of service for her funeral, to approve the choice of prayers, hymns and other accompanying music.

Following the psalm, which includes the line 'the Lord shall preserve thee from all evil', the choristers move on to sing 'The Russian Contakion of the Departed', which was also performed at the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral in April last year.

16:18
Pallbearers carry The Queen's coffin into St George's Chapel

The procession was led into the chapel by members of the Queen's royal household.

Once again the King followed behind the coffin, accompanied by the Queen Consort, with the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence behind, then the Duke of York and the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

16:13
Even the Queen's favourite horse Emma made special tribute to Ma'am

Emma, the Queen's Fell Pony, had greeted the procession, standing on grass in a gap in the floral tributes along the Long Walk in honour of her late owner.

16:10
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen's coffin is carried into St George's Chapel where Her Majesty will be laid to rest

The Queen's coffin has been lifted from the state hearse and carried into St George's Chapel ahead of the committal service.

16:06
The King unites the royal family: Grief is etched across Charles III's face as he and his sons William and Harry join Anne, Edward and Andrew in final march to St George's Chapel

The King and other members of the Royal Family have re-joined the funeral procession behind the Queen's coffin.

Charles, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York, the Earl of Wessex, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex were among those who met the procession at the Quadrangle, as it moves towards Engine Court.

Minute Guns are being fired by The King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery from a position on the East Lawn as the coffin heads in the direction of the West Steps of St George's Chapel.

The Castle's Sebastopol and Curfew Tower bells also tolled as the State Hearse continued its journey.

16:00
BREAKING NEWS: King Charles III receives his mother The Queen at Windsor Castle as he leads his siblings The Princess Royal and Duke of York in final phase of procession to St George's Chapel
15:51
What happens once The Queen arrives at Windsor Castle? Coffin is taken to St George's Chapel where King Charles and the royal family will bid final farewell at committal service before Her Majesty is buried alongside her beloved husband Prince Philip

The royal family will bid farewell to their beloved matriarch in the gothic chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle in a service attended by around 800 people. Members of the congregation are expected to include the late monarch's nearest and dearest, her household staff past and present, and foreign royal families.

The 4pm service, with a strong thread of tradition running throughout, was discussed with the Queen over a number of years and all the prayers and hymns were chosen by her - apart from one.

The Queen left one hymn to be chosen at the time, and after a discussion between the King and the Dean of Windsor David Conner, the hymn chosen was Westminster Abbey adapted from the Alleluyas in Purcell's O God, Thou art my God.

Much of the service will have a feel of looking back, repeating what has gone before, a feeling of coming full circle, with perhaps a sense of the consistency and constancy which the Queen will forever be remembered for.

Prior to the final hymn, the Imperial State Crown, the Orb and the Sceptre will be removed from the coffin by the Crown Jeweller and, with the Bargemaster and Serjeants-at-Arms, will be passed to the Dean who will place them on the altar.

At the end of the final hymn, the King will place The Queen's Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on the coffin. At the same time, The Lord Chamberlain will 'break' his Wand of Office and place it on the coffin.

The Sovereign's Piper will play a lament, A Salute to the Royal Fendersmith, from the doorway between the Chapel and the Dean's Cloister during which he will walk slowly towards the Deanery in the Cloister so that the music inside the Chapel gradually fades.

15:49
The Queen completes her final journey up The Long Walk to Windsor Castle
15:47
London comes to a standstill as people struggle to find open Tube stations amid 'ring of steel' erected for The Queen's state funeral
15:42
Royals including Fergie and Zara and Mike Tindall arrive at St George's Chapel for The Queen's burial service

Some of the Queen's great-grandchildren have arrived at St George's Chapel for the committal service, including Peter Phillips's daughters Savannah and Isla, and Zara and Mike Tindall's daughter Lena.

Prince Andrew's ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York - also known by the nickname 'Fergie' - has also arrived for the burial service. 

15:40
BREAKING NEWS: Princess of Wales arrives at Windsor Castle with her children George and Charlotte
15:36
Spontaneous rounds of applause break out repeatedly on Windsor's Long Walk and ripple through crowd of thousands of mourners as The Queen's coffin slowly makes its way to St George's Chapel

Thousands of people fell silent, held their phones aloft and waved flags as the Queen's coffin passed along the Long Walk towards St George's Chapel.

The crowd was so dense that those at the back could only view the procession through their phones held high on selfie sticks.

Children sat on their parents' shoulders and some clapped as the procession passed by.

15:30
Prince Andrew and The Queen's corgis Muick and Sandy arrive at Windsor Castle ahead of Her Majesty's committal service where she will be buried with her beloved husband The Duke of Edinburgh
15:23
Windsor salutes The Queen: Extraordinary moment tens of thousands of emotional mourners packed down the Long Walk fall into total silence as Her Majesty's body is carried by procession

Silence fell among crowds of mourners as the state hearse carrying the Queen's coffin turned into the Long Walk in the final stretch of her journey to Windsor Castle.

The hearse is travelling in procession to St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle via the Long Walk, which is lined by members of the armed forces.

The crowds, made up of people of all ages, who flanked the Long Walk, fell quiet as the sound of drummers in the procession grew louder. Children were lifted on adults' shoulders and camera phones were raised in the air as people struggled to get a glimpse of the scene.

15:20
Sir Tony Blair and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby arrive at St George's Chapel for The Queen's burial service at Windsor Castle as coffin is carried by procession

Sir Tony Blair was among mourners arriving at Windsor Castle for the Queen's burial service.

The congregation in St George's Chapel stood as His Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms and The King's Body Guard of the Yeoman of the Guard took up their positions in the nave.

Before that, mourners stood as the Canons of Windsor, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York made their way out to the West Steps.

15:18
'It's a day we will never forget': Adventurer Bear Grylls calls Westminster Abbey funeral service he attended 'a truly beautiful testament to our nation's Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth'

Adventurer Bear Grylls, who attended the funeral service in his capacity as Chief Scout, tweeted: 'It's a day we will never forget ... a truly beautiful testament to our nation's Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

'Rest in peace. Your duty done. Long live King Charles...'

15:07
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen arrives at Windsor for the final time as procession begins to take Her Majesty's coffin past thousands of mourners down The Long Walk
14:59
BREAKING NEWS: King Charles arrives at Windsor Castle as the Royal Standard is raised ahead of The Queen's committal service

The Royal Standard has been raised above Windsor Castle, signifying that King Charles has arrived at the royal residence ahead of the committal service for the Queen.

14:56
The history of 'breaking the wand' during the Windsor Castle committal service for Her Majesty The Queen

The committal service at Windsor Castle today contains an ancient tradition where the Lord Chamberlain breaks his Wand of Office and places it on the coffin.

The convention dates back centuries, and is to create a symmetry with the three Instruments of State that have been removed. This is the first time it will be seen by the wider public.

It takes place after the final hymn, when the King will place the Queen's Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on the coffin.

14:53
You can read more about today's solemn events here... as The Queen's coffin is carried to Windsor for burial
14:50
'She wished us better times and shared our desire for freedom': Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska says it was a 'great honour' to be at The Queen's state funeral 'on behalf of all Ukrainians'

Olena Zelenska, the first lady of Ukraine, said it was a 'great honour' to be present at the Queen's funeral 'on behalf of all Ukrainians'.

Mrs Zelenska, who met the Princess of Wales at Buckingham Palace yesterday, said the Queen's attention to Ukraine 'was an important signal of support'.

'She wished us better times and shared our desire for freedom. We will always remember it with deep gratitude,' she wrote on Twitter.

14:46
Crowds of mourners in Windsor wait for The Queen: Royal fans sang the national anthem as they watched the state funeral on the Long Walk

Crowds in Windsor sang the national anthem as they watched the state funeral while awaiting the arrival of the Queen's coffin.

Thousands of mourners poured through Windsor and Eton to line the Long Walk up to Windsor Castle, where the Queen's coffin will arrive for a Committal Service at St George's Chapel.

People watched the state funeral and procession in London from big screens positioned along the road. The largely black-clad crowd fell silent and the atmosphere grew sombre as the Last Post sounded and a two-minute silence followed.

14:35
Thousands of mourners line the roads from London to Windsor to pay their respects to The Queen as the state hearse passes by
14:26
Biden leaves Britain: US President salutes as he boards Air Force One for return flight to Washington DC after attending The Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey
14:25
'She welcomed us to the world stage with extraordinary generosity': Barack Obama pays tribute to The Queen on the day of her state funeral

Barack Obama has paid tribute to the Queen's 'kindness and consideration' as he recalled his meetings with the monarch.

In a video posted to Twitter, the former US President said the first time he met the Queen she reminded him of his grandmother, when she 'could not have been more kind or thoughtful' to him and his wife, Michelle.

'Which surprised me not just in appearance but also in manner... (she was) very gracious but also no nonsense, (with a) wry sense of humour,' he said.

On another occasion Mr Obama described, his wife and two daughters were invited to tea at Buckingham Palace and later driven in the Queen's golden carriage around the grounds - a moment that he said 'left a mark in my daughters' lives that's still there'.

14:23
Emotional Princess Anne is driven along The Mall during her mother The Queen's funeral procession from Westminster Abbey
14:21
A triumph for British diplomacy? Hundreds of emperors, prime ministers and presidents including Joe Biden attend state funeral for The Queen... giving them chance for impromptu tête-à-têtes

Crowned heads and prime ministers, emperors and presidents from around the world were gathered for the state funeral of the Queen.

With some 200 to 250 leaders and their spouses assembled in London, from US President Joe Biden to France's Emmanuel Macron, most had to be bussed in from Royal Hospital Chelsea to prevent a snarl-up of official cars outside Westminster Abbey.

It was another opportunity for some impromptu diplomacy after many of those present were at a reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by the King on Sunday.

14:17
Solemn Northern Ireland veterans wear black as they watch The Queen's state funeral in Westminster Abbey from Belfast
14:15
Britain's former colony Malta salutes The Queen with 21-gun salute while UK troops in Kenya bow their heads for their late Commander-in-Chief
14:12
What happens once The Queen arrives at Windsor? Coffin will be escorted down The Long Walk to St George's Chapel where King Charles and the royal family will bid final farewell at committal service before Her Majesty is buried alongside her beloved husband Prince Philip

Once the Queen's coffin arrives at Windsor, it will be transported up the Long Walk to St George's Chapel for a Committal Service attended by King Charles and other senior royals. 

The royal family will bid farewell to their beloved matriarch in the gothic chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle in a service attended by around 800 people. Members of the congregation are expected to include the late monarch's nearest and dearest, her household staff past and present, and foreign royal families.

The service, with a strong thread of tradition running throughout, was discussed with the Queen over a number of years and all the prayers and hymns were chosen by her - apart from one.

The Queen left one hymn to be chosen at the time, and after a discussion between the King and the Dean of Windsor David Conner, the hymn chosen was Westminster Abbey adapted from the Alleluyas in Purcell's O God, Thou art my God.

Much of the service will have a feel of looking back, repeating what has gone before, a feeling of coming full circle, with perhaps a sense of the consistency and constancy which the Queen will forever be remembered for.

Prior to the final hymn, the Imperial State Crown, the Orb and the Sceptre will be removed from the coffin by the Crown Jeweller and, with the Bargemaster and Serjeants-at-Arms, will be passed to the Dean who will place them on the altar.

At the end of the final hymn, the King will place The Queen's Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on the coffin. At the same time, The Lord Chamberlain will 'break' his Wand of Office and place it on the coffin.

The Sovereign's Piper will play a lament, A Salute to the Royal Fendersmith, from the doorway between the Chapel and the Dean's Cloister during which he will walk slowly towards the Deanery in the Cloister so that the music inside the Chapel gradually fades.

14:10
Convoy escorts state hearse carrying The Queen's coffin from London to Windsor after solemn military funeral procession through the capital
14:03
Buckingham Palace staff faints during funeral procession while military servicemen get into trouble at Wellington Arch

Three military personnel had to be assisted by colleagues after appearing to get into difficulty by Wellington Arch.

One appeared to collapse to the ground after the Royal Family had left, while two others were also seen being helped away before and after the transfer of the Queen's coffin to the state hearse by the monument.

14:01
The Queen leaves London for the final time as her coffin is carried to Windsor Castle for burial service at St George's Chapel in Windsor
13:55
Britain's solemn King: Sorrowful Charles is comforted by Queen Camilla Consort as he brushes away tears in Westminster Abbey before leading funeral procession to Wellington Arch
13:50
Britain salutes The Queen: Mourners cheer and applaud Her Majesty as the state hearse carries her coffin to Windsor Castle where she will be buried with her beloved Prince Philip

Mourning crowds cheered and applauded for the Queen as her coffin was driven by hearse to Windsor - but outside viewing areas, royal fans struggled to catch a glimpse of Her Majesty. 

Despite requests from security guards, members of the public cut holes in netting, clambered up railings and pressed themselves into holly bushes along the edge of Hyde Park as the funeral cortege passed by.

13:48
Is this the most patriotic pub in Britain? Glasgow watering-hole is draped in Union flags as landlords pay tribute to The Queen
13:46
'We are lucky to call ourselves Elizabethans': Labour leader Keir Starmer says 'today marks the passing of an era' as he praises The Queen's 'dignity, courage, spirit, selflessness and good humour'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: 'Today marks the passing of an era. The dignity, courage, spirit, selflessness and good humour Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II showed throughout her reign will always be with us.

'We are lucky to call ourselves Elizabethans.'

13:41
Mourners cheer and applaud for The Queen as her coffin is driven by state hearse to Windsor Castle after moving and sombre ceremony at Westminster Abbey

The Queen's coffin was gently placed into the state hearse before a sea of colourful military personnel, bands, and some cavalry gathered around Wellington Arch.

The transfer from the gun carriage to the vehicle took place in a still silence as the King, the Queen Consort and other senior members of the Royal Family stood to its side just metres away.

Charles and Camilla could be seen leaning their heads together to exchange a few words at one point.

13:38
BREAKING NEWS: National anthem is blared from Wellington Arch as The Queen's coffin is driven by state hearse to Windsor Castle

As the hearse left Wellington Arch, the national anthem was sung while the vehicle was given the royal salute by members of the military parade.

The King, the Queen Consort and members of the royal family are following the hearse to Windsor by car, ahead of the procession to St George's Chapel where a committal ceremony will take place from 4pm.

13:35
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen begins her final journey to Windsor: Her Majesty's coffin is lifted into the state hearse after funeral procession down The Mall

The Queen's coffin has been transferred to the State Hearse at Wellington Arch ahead of beginning its journey to Windsor for a committal ceremony later this afternoon.

Members of the royal family watched on as the bearer party lifted the coffin from the State Gun Carriage and loaded it into the back of the vehicle.

Much of the procession party lined up in formation on the green next to the monument and stood in silence during the moving of the coffin.

13:33
Meghan Markle appears to brush away tears as The Queen's coffin is carried through London after Westminster Abbey state funeral
13:28
BREAKING NEWS: The Queen's funeral procession comes to an end at Wellington Arch before the coffin is then transported to Windsor
13:27
Britain's saddest day: The Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey attended by 2,000 VIPs including emperors, kings and queens, prime ministers and presidents from all around the world
13:26
Mourners lining Constitution Hill wave red and white roses as The Queen's coffin passes towards Wellington Arch

Mourners lining the barriers on Constitution Hill waved red and white roses as the Queen's coffin passed them.

The King, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex appeared solemn as they walked behind.

Princess Charlotte looked out at the crowds of people lining the street as she rode past in a car with the Queen Consort, the Princess of Wales and her brother Prince George.

13:24
Mourners in Manchester gather to watch The Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey as Britain pays its respects to its longest-reigning monarch
13:22
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby says 'it was the honour of a lifetime' to preach at The Queen's state funeral

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said: 'It was the honour of a lifetime, and among its saddest moments, to preach at the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, whose hope and faith in Jesus Christ inspired her servant leadership.'

13:19
Mourners are overwhelmed by the majesty of The Queen's cortege as King Charles and senior royals lead thousands of military servicemen in solemn funeral procession

The Queen's coffin was taken past Buckingham Palace for the final time, as her coffin travelled towards Wellington Arch.

Preceded by members of the armed forces, her coffin was taken clockwise around the Victoria Memorial on a gun carriage drawn by naval ratings.

Staff members from the Palace said their final goodbyes as the late monarch moved by, standing with their hands clasped and heads bowed.

13:18
Royal Gun Salute is performed in Hyde Park on day of The Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey and burial in Windsor
13:17
Mourners break out into spontaneous applause as The Queen's coffin is marched slowly down The Mall past Buckingham Palace

The crowd along the Mall broke into applause and cheers after the Queen's coffin passed them and circled round the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace.

Members of the royal family, including the King, remained expressionless as they marched behind, while other members of the royal family, including the Princess of Wales, looked on at the crowds as they passed them in vehicles.

Once the coffin reached Buckingham Palace, members of staff at the palace bowed and curtsied both at the coffin and members of the royal family as they made their way past.

13:14
Britain's future King - Prince George - and his sister Princess Charlotte are the youngest members of the royal family following The Queen's coffin as they bid farewell to their beloved 'Gan Gan'

The future King, Prince George, and his sister, Princess Charlotte, bid farewell to their beloved 'Gan Gan' as the youngest members of the royal family to follow the Queen's coffin through Westminster Abbey.

The royal siblings, great grandchildren of the Queen, were among 2,000 guests at her state funeral, joining their parents, world leaders and national figures from UK.

George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, seven, walked behind the Queen's coffin as part of a solemn procession past hundreds of guests through the gothic church.

13:10
King Charles and senior royals salute The Cenotaph down Whitehall as The Queen's coffin is marched slowly through London

As the Queen's funeral procession moved past the Cenotaph in London, the King, the Prince of Wales, the Princess Royal and the Earl of Wessex saluted the memorial to Britain and the Commonwealth soldiers killed in the First and Second World Wars.

13:09
Edinburgh watches The Queen's funeral procession in solemn silence: Scots gather outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse as Britain honours Her Majesty's life of selfless duty

Silence fell on Edinburgh's Holyrood Park on Monday morning as hundreds of mourners gathered to watch the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II just yards from her official Scottish residence.

Many brought camp chairs, picnics and even tents as they joined together for the funeral which was shown on a giant screen.

The majority of surrounding businesses in Edinburgh had closed for the day as a mark of respect, adding to the sombre mood of the city which just last week played a historic role in laying the late monarch to rest.

13:07
Silent mourners wipe away tears for Her Majesty during two minute silence during The Queen's state funeral
13:07
Incredible aerial photo shows scale of funeral procession for The Queen as it marches slowly down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace
13:06
Magaluf salutes you Ma'am: British tourists pack out bars in Spanish holiday resort to watch state funeral at Westminster Abbey
13:04
'The most watched event in history': Global media cover state funeral of Britain's longest-reigning monarch at Westminster Abbey
13:01
Waterloo stands silent for The Queen: British Transport Police bow their heads during two minute silence at end of state funeral while mourners down The Mall weep for Her Majesty
12:59
The royal family mourns for the 'Grandmother of the Nation': King Charles stands shoulder-to-shoulder with his son the Duke of Sussex and siblings Princess Anne and Prince Andrew during funeral procession for Elizabeth II
12:58
Funeral procession carries The Queen's coffin down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace then up Constitution Hill to Wellington Arch, where mourners at Hyde Park weep for Her Majesty

The head of the procession leading the Queen's coffin through London has reached the Wellington Arch monument at Hyde Park Corner where the coffin will be transferred on to the state hearse.

The mass of military bands and personnel slowly marched into the green space around the imposing monument.

According to English Heritage, the arch was an original entrance to Buckingham Palace, later becoming a victory arch commemorating the Duke of Wellington's defeat of Napoleon.

The arch is topped by a large bronze sculpture, depicting the angel of peace descending on the four-horsed chariot of war.

12:56
France's Emmanuel Macron and former Prime Ministers Tony Blair, Boris Johnson, David Cameron, Gordon Brown and John Major leave Westminster Abbey after the Queen's coffin was carried out of ancient church
12:52
Prince William's children George and Charlotte join Queen Consort Camilla, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle in paying their respects to The Queen on solemn funeral day

As the procession left Westminster Abbey for Wellington Arch, members of the royal family watched on.

The Queen Consort, the Duchess of Sussex, the Princess of Wales and the Countess of Wessex were seen looking sombre as the King and his siblings marched off.

Prince George and Princess Charlotte stood in front of their mother, with George looking directly at the coffin as it passed.

12:50
Queen's funeral procession slowly marches down The Mall as huge crowd of mourners gathers to pay their last respects to Her Majesty Elizabeth II
12:48
Paris pays tribute to The Queen: Capital metro station George V is renamed Elizabeth II on day of state funeral in London
12:45
Her Majesty's final journey up The Mall: Solemn military procession marches slowly past thousands of mourners as it makes its way up Constitution Hill to Hyde Park Corner
12:43
Pipers from the Scots and Irish Guards march outside Westminster Abbey as Her Majesty's coffin is escorted to Wellington Arch

There was a hush from the crowd in Whitehall, as the funeral procession moved past the Cabinet War Rooms, the Cenotaph and Downing Street.

Some emerged from balconies and windows, clad in black, while those on the street craned their necks and clutched cameras as they awaited the chance to say goodbye to the monarch.

12:42
Prince George and Princess Charlotte stand in solemn tribute to their late great-grandmother with Princess of Wales after Westminster Abbey funeral service
12:39
Meghan Markle leaves Westminster Abbey as her husband the Duke of Sussex escorts the Queen's coffin through London to Wellington Arch
12:38
The sun shines down on the Queen: Her Majesty is escorted from Westminster Abbey along The Mall to Hyde Park Corner in solemn military procession led by King Charles and senior royals
12:36
Scotland salutes the Queen: Mourners watch Her Majesty's state funeral on TV screen outside Edinburgh's Palace of Holyroodhouse
12:34
Her Majesty travels through London one final time: Tens of thousands of weeping mourners gather down imperial path from Buckingham Palace to pay respects to the Queen as King Charles leads procession carrying her coffin to Wellington Arch
12:32
Britain braves the rain for Ma'am: Mourners in Leeds stand under brollies as they gather to pay tribute to Her Majesty Elizabeth II
12:29
Joe Biden cements Britain and America's 'Special Relationship' as US President attends solemn Westminster Abbey funeral for the Queen
12:20
BREAKING NEWS: The clock of Big Ben marks the beginning of magnificent procession to Wellington Arch as mourners line The Mall to catch glimpse of the Queen's coffin

The Queen's coffin, followed by the King, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Sussex, Duke of York and the Princess Royal, has begun its procession towards Wellington Arch after it was placed back onto the State Gun Carriage.

The route is being lined by the armed forces from Westminster Abbey to the top of Constitution Hill at the Commonwealth Memorial Gates.

Mounties of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police lead the procession followed immediately by representatives of the George Cross foundations from Malta, the former Royal Ulster Constabulary, and four representatives from the NHS.

12:16
Her Majesty Elizabeth II begins her final journey to Windsor: Pallbearers carry the Queen's coffin out of Westminster Abbey and place it on State Gun Carriage for procession down The Mall and through Whitehall to Wellington Arch
12:15
The Queen's coffin is carried around the grave of the Unknown Soldier before a magnificent procession taking Her Majesty to Wellington Arch
12:15
Mourners gather in Hyde Park to watch the Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey as Britain pays solemn tribute to its longest-reigning monarch
12:09
BREAKING NEWS: Pallbearers carry Her Majesty The Queen's coffin out of Westminster Abbey as majestic ceremony comes to an end

The Queen's funeral has drawn to a close with a lament played by The Sovereign's piper and her coffin has been carried from Westminster Abbey to be placed on the State Gun Carriage.

The strains of the lament, 'Sleep, dearie, sleep', could still be heard echoing through the abbey as the piper walked off.

Shortly after, as the organist played Bach's Fantasia in C minor, soldiers of the bearer party entered from the South Quire Aisle.

As the bearers moved slowly through the abbey to place the coffin once more on the gun carriage, they were followed in procession to the Great West Door by The King and Queen Consort along with other members of the Royal Family.

12:04
Emotional King Charles keeps silent as congregation at Westminster Abbey bursts into the national anthem - while crowds on The Mall broke into applause

The King looked very emotional during the singing of the national anthem at Westminster Abbey.

Charles remained silent during the song, while his siblings and members of the royal family sang along.

Gripping his ceremonial sword, Charles looked downcast as he started straight ahead while a piper played Sleep, Dearie, Sleep.

Crowds lining The Mall broke into spontaneous applause after the national anthem was played.

12:02
The eyes of the Commonwealth fall on Britain: Australians and Britons gather in their homes to watch the Queen's funeral at Westminster Abbey as the Elizabethan era comes to an end
11:59
BREAKING NEWS: Westminster Abbey falls silent for the Queen as majestic state funeral attended by King Charles, the royal family and 2,000 VIPs nears its end

The nation stood in silent reverence to the Queen for two minutes as the state funeral drew to a close.

The congregation at Westminster Abbey, including King Charles and the royal family and 2,000 VIPs including emperors, kings and queens, prime ministers and presidents from around the world, bowed their heads during the silence for Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

The atmosphere grew eerily quiet, still and sombre as the sound of The Last Post sounded from large screens broadcasting the state funeral at Westminster Abbey. 

Crowds along the Long Walk in Windsor also fell silent.

11:49
The royal history behind the second hymn sung at the Queen's funeral at Westminster Abbey: The Lord's my shepherd was sung at Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's wedding

The second hymn sung at the abbey was, 'The Lord's my shepherd', to the Crimond tune, originating from a parish in Aberdeenshire, not far from Balmoral Castle, where the Queen passed away.

The hymn was sung at the Wedding of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. 

The young Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret summoned the Master of Choristers to Buckingham Palace in the lead up to the wedding and sang for him the particular descant, by William Baird Ross, which they wanted to be used.

11:46
A nation mourns their queen: Britons in Hyde Park and down The Mall stand in silent reverence for Her Majesty Elizabeth II at her state funeral
11:33
'She was joyful, present to so many, touching a multitude of lives': Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby pays tribute to the Queen's 'abundant life and loving service, now gone from us' at state funeral

The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby told attendees of the Queen's state funeral that grief felt across the world arises from the Queen's 'abundant life and loving service, now gone from us'.

In his sermon, he said: 'People of loving service are rare in any walk of life. Leaders of loving service are still rarer.

'But in all cases those who serve will be loved and remembered when those who cling to power and privileges are long forgotten. The grief of this day - felt not only by the late Queen's family but all round the nation, Commonwealth and world - arises from her abundant life and loving service, now gone from us.

'She was joyful, present to so many, touching a multitude of lives.'

11:32
Huge crowds gather to watch the state funeral for the late Queen: Mourners camp by Parliament Square to watch the ceremony and catch a glimpse of Her Majesty's coffin at procession to Wellington Arch

Huge crowds gather to watch the state funeral for the late Queen.

Earlier, there was complete silence from the crowd close to Parliament Square, as the State Gun Carriage carrying the Queen's coffin slowly moved past. The crowd, momentarily still and with phones held aloft to capture the moment, was around 10-people thick in places, as tens of thousands thronged the streets to say goodbye to the monarch and witness a moment of history.

11:30
Tears for Her Majesty: Emotional mourners wipe away tears during moving Westminster Abbey state funeral
11:23
Prime Minister Liz Truss gives a bible reading at Westminster Abbey funeral ceremony for Her Majesty Elizabeth II at service attended by 500 emperors, kings, queens, prime ministers and presidents

UK Prime Minister Liz Truss addresses royal mourners at Service for Her Majesty.

Ms Truss spoke the words from the second lesson from John 14: 1-9a, which reads: 'Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.'

11:13
The funeral service is underway with a reading from Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC

The funeral service for the late Queen Elizabeth II is underway, led by the dean of Westminster, Dr David Hoyle.

The first reading came from Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC. She is the sixth Commonwealth Secretary-General and was born in Dominica.

Her Bible reading came from passage 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 53-End. It reads: 'Now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.'

11:10
Brothers in arms: Prince of Wales and Duke of Sussex walk behind their grandmother the Queen's coffin on State Gun Carriage to Westminster Abbey ahead of state funeral
11:09
Duke of York looks overcome with emotion
10:57
Queen's coffin procession arrives at Westminster Abbey

The Queen's coffin procession has arrived at Westminster Abbey, with the bearer party, made up of members of the Queen's guard, carrying the coffin from the gun carriage.

The funeral service, led by the dean of Westminster, Dr David Hoyle, is due to begin in a few minutes, at 11am.

10:54
Crowds applaud and wipe away tears as coffin is taken to Westminster Abbey

As the coffin was taken into Westminster Abbey there was applause from the crowds on the Long Walk with many wiping away tears.

The Queen's coffin being taken to Westminster Abbey
The Queen's coffin being taken to Westminster Abbey
10:48
Queen's coffin procession to Westminster Abbey

The Queen's coffin is being carried from Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey by the gun carriage, towed by 142 sailors from the Royal Navy.

King Charles III, royal family members and members of the royal household are following the coffin.

10:44
Kate Middleton, Prince George and Princess Charlotte arrive at the abbey

Kate Middleton, Prince George and Princess Charlotte are seen arriving at the abbey.

Kate Middleton, Prince George and Princess Charlotte are seen arriving at the abbey
Princess Charlotte arrives at Westminster Abbey ahead of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II
Prince George of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Catherine, Princess of Wales and Camilla, Queen consort are seen on The Mall ahead of The State Funeral for Queen Elizabeth II
10:42
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla make their way to Westminster Abbey

King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla make their way to Westminster Abbey.

Britain's King Charles is seen travelling in a car on The Mall, on the day of the state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, in London
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla make their way to Westminster Abbey
10:34
The Royal Family has arrived at Westminster Hall

The Royal Family has arrived at Westminster Hall as they prepare to say farewell to Elizabeth II at her state funeral along with 2,000 VIPs and an estimated 2million people in central London.

There were cheers and clapping as Prince William , the Princess of Wales and their children George and Charlotte were swept into Parliament Square.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex travelled down The Mall with a police escort. Harry was seen looking sombre as he was driven in a Range Rover from Wellington Arch, down Constitution Hill and on The Mall towards St James' Palace. Four vehicles with flags were seen driving ahead of Harry's car.

Other members of the Royal family to arrive include Meghan Markle, Princess Anne, Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice and the Countess of Wessex.

Prince William, Princess Charlotte and Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, head to Westminster abbey
Meghan Markle arriving for the state funeral of the late Queen
Princess Anne is driven to Westminster Abbey for the funeral of her mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in central London
Zara Tindall walks outside Westminster Abbey, on the day of the state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, in London
Britain's Princess Beatrice walks outside Westminster Abbey, on the day of the state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, in London, Britain, September 19, 2022. REUTERS/Hannah McKay/Pool
The Countess of Wessex arrives ahead of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
Prince Harry at Westminster Abbey for the funeral of his grandmother the late Queen Elizabeth II
10:32
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joins mourners at the abbey

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joins mourners at the abbey.

Image Licensed to i-Images Picture Agency. 19/09/2022. London, United Kingdom. State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey in London. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images
10:28
Current UK Prime Minister Liz Truss and former UK Prime Minister David Cameron arrive at Westminster Abbey

Current UK Prime Minister Liz Truss and former UK Prime Minister David Cameron arrive at Westminster Abbey.

Current UK Prime Minister Liz Truss arrives at Westminster Abbey
Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron arrives at Westminster Abbey
10:26
Nicola Sturgeon and Theresa May join mourners

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and former UK Prime Minister Theresa May join mourners.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon Theresa May joins mourners
Former UK Prime Minister Theresa May joins mourners
10:24
Former Labour Prime Ministers Gordon Brown and Tony Blair join the politicians arriving at the abbey

Former Labour Prime Ministers Gordon Brown and Tony Blair join the politicians arriving at the abbey ahead of the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

Former Labour Prime Ministers Gordon Brown and Tony Blair join the politicians arriving at the abbey ahead of the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II
10:23
Boris and Carries Johnson arrive at the abbey ahead of the state funeral

Boris and Carries Johnson arrive at the abbey ahead of the state funeral.

Boris and Carries Johnson arrive at the abbey ahead of the state funeral
10:20
President of Ireland Michael D Higgins joins the other mourners at Westminster Abbey

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins joins the other mourners at Westminster Abbey.

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina arriving at the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London. Picture date: Monday September 19, 2022. PA Photo. See PA story FUNERAL Queen. Photo credit should read: Peter Byrne/PA Wire
10:17
US President Joe Biden arrives at Westminster Abbey

US President Joe Biden has arrived at Westminster Abbey ahead of the Queen's state funeral.

Mr Biden has joined the huge numbers of mourners attending the service alongside his wife Dr Jill Biden.

US President Joe Biden and Dr Jill Biden arrive ahead of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey
US President Joe Biden exits a car outside the Westminster Abbey, on the day of the state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, in London
10:07
French President Emmanuel Macron and Israeli President Isaac Herzog among world leaders arriving at the abbey

French President Emmanuel Macron and Israeli President Isaac Herzog are among the many world leaders arriving at the abbey.

Mr Macron arrives with his wife Brigitte Macron.

French President Emmanuel Macron is among the many world leaders arriving at the abbey
Israel's President Isaac Herzog arrives at Westminster Abbey in London
10:00
Ben Wallace, Kwasi Kwarteng and Therese Coffey join the many politicians arriving at Westminster Abbey

Ben Wallace, Kwasi Kwarteng and Therese Coffey join the many politicians arriving at Westminster Abbey for the state funeral of the late monarch.

The Rt Hon Therese Coffey joins the many politicians arriving at Westminster Abbey for the state funeral of the late monarch.
Ben Wallace and Kwasi Kwarteng pictured arriving at the abbey
09:49
Dignitaries arrive at Westminster Abbey for The Queen's funeral

Westminster Abbey is filling up ahead of the Queen's state funeral this morning as the congregation arrived up to three hours early as huge crowds of mourners packed the procession route outside and tens of thousands more went to Windsor, where Her Majesty will be buried later.

Michael and Carole Middleton, Kate Middleton's parents, were among hundreds of VIPs who arrived at the UK's most important church - where Her Majesty married Prince Philip and had her coronation.

2,000 royals, world leaders and hundreds of members of the public have began filing into the Abbey as billions around the world will watch Her Majesty's state funeral.

09:45
All public viewing areas for the Queen's funeral procession are full

All public viewing areas for the Queen's funeral procession are full, London's
City Hall said.

READ MORE: 

09:37
Ian Blackford, Bear Grylls and Penny Mourdant arrive at Westminster Abbey

Ian Blackford, Bear Grylls and Penny Mourdant have arrived at Westminster Abbey for the state funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

British television personality Bear Grylls gestures on the day of the state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, outside Westminster Abbey in London
Penny Mourdant arrives at HM Queen Elizabeth II's funeral held at Westminster Abbey
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford arrives for the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
09:29
King Charles III's state reception on the eve of his late mother the Queen's funeral

King Charles III hosted a state reception at Buckingham Palace last night, the eve of his late mother the Queen's funeral.

The event, which the new king hosted with his wife Camilla who is now Queen Consort, began at 6pm, while a minute's silence was held at 8pm in tribute to the late monarch.

Leaders from across the world attended, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the new UK Prime Minister Liz Truss.

His Majesty King Charles III holds a reception for Heads of State and overseas visitors at Buckingham Palace. Pictured is Queen Consort Camilla with UK Prime Minister Liz Truss
His Majesty King Charles III holds a reception for Heads of State and overseas visitors at Buckingham Palace. Pictured is the King with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
His Majesty King Charles III holds a reception for Heads of State and overseas visitors at Buckingham Palace. Pictured is the King with French President Emmanuel Macron
09:19
Carole and Michael Middleton join the mourners arriving at Westminster Abbey

Carole and Michael Middleton, parents of the Princess of Wales, join the mourners arriving at Westminster Abbey.

Tom Parker Bowles and Scottish Secretary Alister Jack have also recently arrived at the abbey.

Carole and Michael Middleton join the mourners arriving at Westminster Abbey
Carole and Michael Middleton join the mourners arriving at Westminster Abbey
Tom Parker Bowles (right) arriving at the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack arrives for the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
09:12
Secretary of State for Education Kit Malthouse joins those beginning to take their places in the abbey

Secretary of State for Education Kit Malthouse joins those beginning to take their places in Westminster Abbey for the state funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Secretary of State for Education, Kit Malthouse arrives at Westminster Abbey ahead of The State Funeral Of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey
Guests and officials begin to take their places at the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
09:06
Sir Keir Starmer, Jacob Rees-Mogg and William Hague arrive at Westminster Abbey

Sir Keir Starmer, Jacob Rees-Mogg and William Hague have arrived at Westminster Abbey for Her Majesty's state funeral joining other guests including Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi.

British Labour Party leader Keir Starmer at Westminster Abbey, on the day of state funeral and burial of Britain's Queen Elizabeth
Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg arrives for the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, held at Westminster Abbey, London
William Hague arrives at Westminster Abbey ahead of The State Funeral Of Queen Elizabeth II
08:54
Mourners stream into Windsor and bag prime spots in London to watch the Queen's funeral procession

Mourners are streaming into Windsor as well as claiming prime spots in London to watch the funeral procession of Queen Elizabeth II.

In the capital, the state funeral service will end at midday when the late Queen's coffin will be placed on the state gun carriage and there will be a coffin procession to Wellington Arch.

In Windsor, the hearse carrying the late monarch's coffin will arrive at 3.06pm and will make its way along the Long Walk.

Mourners arrive at Windsor to watch the funeral procession of Queen Elizabeth II as it makes its way along the Long Walk, in Windsor
People wait along the route that the coffin of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II will be pulled on a gun carriage during her funeral service in Westminster Abbey in central London
08:27
First mourners start arriving at Westminster abbey including Nadhim Zahawi

The first mourners started arriving to take their seats shortly after 8am, with Nadhim Zahawi seen recently arriving at Westminster abbey for the Queen's state funeral.

Dignitaries were arriving later, with many heads of state gathering at a nearby hospital to be driven by bus to the abbey.

The grand oak doors of the UK's most important church - where Her Majesty married Prince Philip and had her coronation - have opened three hours before the service is due to start. 

2,000 royals, world leaders, VIPs and hundreds of members of the public will be in the Abbey as billions around the world will watch Her Majesty's state funeral.

Nadhim Zahawi seen recently arriving at the abbey for the service
Mourners started arriving to take their seats shortly after 8am
2,000 royals, world leaders, VIPs and hundreds of members of the public will be in the Abbey
07:35
All railway lines between Slough and Paddington are blocked

All railway lines between Slough and Paddington are blocked due to damage to overhead electric wires, Great Western Railway (GWR) said.

This is disrupting journeys for mourners attempting to travel to London for the Queen's funeral from Reading or Heathrow Airport.

Services run by GWR, Heathrow Express and the Elizabeth line are affected.

The lines between Reading and Newbury are also closed due to a person being hit by a train.
This is causing GWR trains to be diverted, delaying journeys to the capital.

07:34
Who was the last person to see Queen's lying in state at Westminster Hall

The last person leaving the Queen's lying in state at Westminster Hall was Christine Heerey, a serving member of the RAF.

Ms Heerey said: 'I was the last person to pay my respects to the Queen and it felt like a real privilege to do that. I'd already been round once, I went in at 1:15 this morning. It's one of the highlights of my life and I feel very privileged to be here.'

 

06:35

The Queen's lying in state has now officially finished ahead of her funeral today, with an estimated 400,000 mourners thought to have passed through Westminster Hall over the past five days.

The final people were admitted to the line to see the Queen's coffin at about 10.30pm last night, which gave them time to make it through before the closure at 6.30am this morning. The line was opened at 5pm last Wednesday.

But some mourners who queued for hours through the night without wristbands have vented their frustrations at police after being turned away from the lying in state. Read the full story on MailOnline here:

06:11
Queen's lying in state set to end shortly at 6.30am this morning

Hundreds of people are still streaming out of Westminster Hall having seen the Queen lying in state.

These are among the final people to see the Queen's coffin, with the lying in state expected to finish at 6.30am.

They have been waiting for hours, with the queue closing after 10.30pm last night. The pictures below were taken at about 5.15am this morning:

05:53

Police are set to begin closing roads in London this morning ahead of the Queen 's funeral as motorists were warned to avoid driving in parts of the capital amid one of Britain's biggest transport operations in history.

Road closures will start to come in from 6am this morning on the A4 and the A30 in West London towards Windsor, with full closures in both directions after 10am, which are not likely to be lifted until the evening. Read more on MailOnline here:

05:28
Police patrol Whitehall early this morning before Queen's funeral

Police security teams have been patrolling Whitehall early this morning ahead of Queen Elizabeth II's funeral at Westminster Abbey, at the climax of the biggest security operation Britain has ever seen:

05:17

The Queen Consort has spoken of the Queen's passion for horse racing as part of a moving tribute to Her Majesty.

Speaking in a televised tribute, Camilla said the late monarch had a withering gaze and would turn her 'wonderful blue eyes' on people who questioned her knowledge of the sport.

She also remarked how the Queen loved her summers breaks in Balmoral and how the Her Majesty had a clear demarcation between her public duties and private life, with these breaks in Scotland were the time for 'her enjoyment'.

Read more about her tribute on MailOnline here:

05:14
Funeral security operation is 'biggest the UK has ever seen'

The day of the Queen's funeral marks the climax of what is being regarded as the biggest security operation the UK has ever seen.

Huge crowds, royalty and a long list of world leaders as well as other dignitaries will all need to be kept safe as part of the mammoth job facing thousands of police officers.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy said 'nothing can compare' to the 'hugely complex' task, describing it as the 'largest policing operation' in the Met's history.

The scale surpasses the operation for the Platinum Jubilee weekend and the London 2012 Olympics, which saw up to 10,000 police officers on duty per day.

It is also the largest global protection operation dealt with by the force, with world leaders, dignitaries and other VIPs attending the state funeral.

Former counter-terrorism police chief Nick Aldworth said it is 'probably the biggest operation that we're likely to mount in the UK'.

05:03

King Charles III's succession from heir to the throne to monarch has happened at lightning speed. But one issue will take a little longer to resolve: just where will he live?

Traditionally, moving up to the top job means a corresponding rise up the property ladder. And in Charles's case it should mean moving in to Buckingham Palace, the headquarters of the British monarchy.

But where to live is by no means his only dilemma. He will also have to choose what to do about the many royal residences now at his disposal, which could be the most delicate of decisions in these early days of the new reign.

Click below to read Richard Kay's full article in the Daily Mail today:

04:56
Mourners camp out overnight for the Queen's funeral

Mourners have spent the night in Westminster in sleeping bags to ensure they get a good vantage point for the Queen's funeral. People camped out in Parliament Square are pictured early this morning:

04:38

Hardy royal fans defied no-camping rules ahead of the Queen's funeral today, as people of all ages set up tents, deckchairs and even a makeshift minibar to grab premium seats for the spectacle.

Scores of people began bedding in to line The Mall in central London over the weekend, despite rules – seemingly loosely enforced – preventing people from setting up camp.

Read the latest on MailOnline here:

04:37

Junior members of the royal household have been left ‘upset and disappointed’ at not being able to see the Queen lying in state.

Her staff say it is a ‘kick in stomach’ that MPs have been allowed to jump ahead of the queue – and take four guests with them – when many of those who served her loyally for years have not even been able to pay their respects.

There has also been much criticism of television presenters Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby using a priority media queue to view Her Majesty’s coffin.

Read the full story on MailOnline:

04:33
What music will feature in the Queen's funeral today?

The Queen's Piper will help close her state funeral with a rendition of the traditional piece Sleep, Dearie, Sleep.

Pipe Major Paul Burns, the monarch's personal player at the time of her death, will perform as the service comes to an end and the congregation stands, before the coffin leaves Westminster Abbey for Windsor.

Before the service, Matthew Jorysz, assistant organist of the abbey, will play a series of pieces including Elegy Op 58 by Sir Edward Elgar, Reliqui Domum Meum by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, and Fantasy On O Paradise by Malcolm Williamson.

He will also play Romanza (Symphony no 5 in D) by Ralph Vaughan Williams, arranged by Robert Quinney.

The sub-organist will play two pieces by Elgar - Andante Espressivo (Sonata in G Op 28) and Sospiri Op 70.

Hymns sung during the service will include The Lord's My Shepherd, The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended and Love Divine, All Loves Excelling.

04:31

Palace aides reacted angrily to claims last night that Prince Harry had been given just five minutes' notice of his grandmother's death before it was made public.

A newspaper report said the devastated royal had been the last to know about her passing – and was even told after Prime Minister Liz Truss. The Daily Telegraph suggested this was a further example of the rift between the prince and his family.

But there was clear irritation at Buckingham Palace that such claims had emerged on the eve of the Queen's funeral, which was considered hugely disrespectful.

Read the full story on MailOnline:

04:29

The funeral of Queen Elizabeth II will take place at Westminster Abbey today before Her Majesty is laid to rest alongside her late husband, Prince Philip, at St George's Chapel in Windsor.

London is expected to be at full capacity as hundreds of thousands of well-wishers descend on the capital to watch the processions unfold throughout the historic day of mourning.

Read more about how the historic day of mourning will unfold:

04:26

Prince George and Princess Charlotte will make a surprise appearance at their great-grandmother’s funeral today, walking behind her coffin into Westminster Abbey.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are understood to have thought ‘long and hard’ about whether their two eldest children, aged nine and seven, should join them.

But after George and Charlotte attended their great-grandfather’s memorial in March, William and Kate decided they could cope with the solemnity of the occasion. Louis, the couple’s youngest, is just four and will not be joining.

Read the full story from the Daily Mail on MailOnline: 

04:24
What are the timings for today for the Queen's funeral?

- Lying in state

The lying in state will end at 6.30am today, before the Queen's coffin is taken to Westminster Abbey for the funeral service.

- Funeral service at Westminster Abbey

At 8am, the congregation will begin to take their seats in the abbey.

Just after 10.35am, a bearer party from The Queen's Company, 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, will lift the coffin from a wooden frame and carry it to the Royal Navy's State Gun Carriage by the North Door of Westminster Hall.

The carriage will depart at 10.44am, drawn by 142 Royal Naval personnel. It will be followed by the King, other members of the royal family, the King's Household and the Household of the Prince of Wales.

The procession will arrive at the West Gate of Westminster Abbey at 10.52am and the coffin will be lifted off the carriage by the bearer party and carried inside.

Before the service, the tenor bell will toll every minute for 96 minutes, reflecting the years of the Queen's life.

The funeral will begin at 11am.

At 11.55am, The Last Post will mark the beginning of a national two-minute silence.

The Queen's Piper will then play Reveille, the national anthem and a lament to bring the service to a close at around 12pm.

- The procession and onwards to Windsor

The Queen's coffin will be carried back to the gun carriage before the procession steps off from Westminster Abbey at 12.15pm.

The procession will move through Broad Sanctuary Parliament Square (south and east sides), Parliament Street, Whitehall, Horse Guards including Horse Guards Arch, Horse Guards Road, The Mall, Queen's Gardens (south and west sides), Constitution Hill and Apsley Way, before arriving at Wellington Arch at 1pm.

The coffin will be lifted off the gun carriage and placed in the state hearse, which will depart for Windsor as the parade gives a royal salute and the national anthem is played.

The King and the Queen Consort, the Prince and Princess of Wales and other members of the royal family will depart for Windsor by car.

The hearse will approach Shaw Farm Gate in Albert Road, Windsor, and join the procession, which will have been formed up and in position to step off at 3.10pm.

- The committal service

The service will mark the end of public ceremonial arrangements, and will begin at 4pm.

The door of St George's Chapel will open for the congregation at 3.20pm, with members of the royal family not in the procession arriving for the service at 3.25pm.

The hearse will process along Albert Road, Long Walk, Cambridge Gate, Cambridge Drive, George IV Gate, Quadrangle (south and west sides), Engine Court, Norman Arch, Chapel Hill and the Parade Ground.

The procession, which will have been joined by the King and other family members on the north side of the quadrangle as it passes into Engine Court, will arrive at the West Steps of the chapel in Horseshoe Cloister at 3.53pm.

The bearer party will lift the coffin from the hearse and it will be carried in procession up the steps into St George's Chapel before the committal service.

It is not known how long the service will last.

The King and members of the royal family will depart from the Galilee Porch for Windsor Castle once the service concludes.

- The private burial service

The Dean of Windsor will conduct a burial service attended by the King and members of the royal family at 7.30pm.

The Queen will be buried with the Duke of Edinburgh at King George VI Memorial Chapel.

04:21
Can you still join the queue to see the Queen's lying in state?

No. The queue to see the Queen lying in state has now closed to new arrivals.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said after 10.30pm last night that the last people had been admitted to the queue to see the Queen's coffin at Westminster Hall.

The announcement had been expected throughout the day on Sunday as waiting times hit a peak of 14 hours at 10am.

By 9pm the waiting time was seven hours as the last crowds filed through, with people collecting wristbands for entry at London Bridge.

04:19
Welcome to MailOnline’s liveblog

Good morning and welcome to MailOnline's liveblog on this historic day.

The Queen is to be reunited with her husband the Duke of Edinburgh as she is laid to rest in a state funeral today.

Crowds of mourners will flock to London, Windsor and royal sites throughout the UK on the national bank holiday, with the service set to draw millions of TV viewers across the globe.

The royal family, including Prince George and Princess Charlotte, will be among the 2,000 people gathered at Westminster Abbey to remember the late monarch this morning, before a committal service at Windsor Castle.

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