Wreaths Laid in Touching Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at County Hall
A solemn ceremony was held in the historic Stone Hall of Sessions House to honour the late Queen Elizabeth II. The brief but heartfelt event saw councillors and staff pay their respects with wreaths.
Leaders Speak of Queen’s Enduring Legacy
Gary Cooke, Vice Chair of the Council, kicked off the tribute by laying the first wreath. He said, “From a personal standpoint, I was born shortly after Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, so she has been Queen my entire life.” He added, “There is so much love for Her Majesty, and it is so important for us to come together and show genuine and heartfelt respect in this way. Nobody is more deserving than our Queen.”
Roger Gough, Leader of Kent County Council, followed with a moving statement: “It was critical for Members, officers, and staff to be able to honour the Queen in this way.” Gough reflected on the Queen’s lifelong dedication, calling her “the country’s greatest public servant” and emphasising the importance of this moment amid national and global turmoil.
Opposition and Staff Join in Respectful Remembrance
Dr Lauren Sullivan, Leader of the Labour Group, laid a wreath on behalf of the Opposition. She said, “It’s so important for us to come together as a Council to recognise and truly reflect on the great service that the Queen has delivered throughout her entire life. She is an inspiration to all of us. May she find peace.”
Following the wreath-laying, officers from the Council’s Central Management Team paid tribute to the Queen on behalf of all Kent County Council staff before heading to Maidstone Town Hall for the proclamation of King Charles III.
Flags at Half-Mast and Book of Condolence Open to Public
In line with national mourning, the Union Flag at County Hall was raised to full mast on the day King Charles III was proclaimed at St James’s Palace. It was then lowered to half-mast the following day and will remain so until the Queen’s funeral.
The funeral has been scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, September 19, which will also be a Bank Holiday.
Residents wishing to pay their respects can visit County Hall to sign the Book of Condolence, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., including weekends.
