Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has expressed her condolences after Buckingham Palace announced the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

Buckingham Palace announced the death of Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96 in Balmoral.

“In the first instance, my thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Royal Family at this sad time. They are mourning a much-loved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother,” said Mrs Long.

“But while they have lost a matriarch, the entire country and indeed Commonwealth has lost a person who has been a figure-head and leader for 70 years. Her loss will be keenly felt by many.

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is one of the figures who came to define the 20th Century, as well as a large part of the 21st due not only to her longevity but her commitment and dedication to the country and Commonwealth. The majority of us have only ever known her in the role of sovereign and it will be incredibly strange to not see her there carrying out her duties.

“Throughout her reign, the Queen worked tirelessly in service to the country and Commonwealth, receiving praise from all quarters for her selfless dedication to the role. That is only one of the aspects of her life which will remain as her lasting legacy, and I hope it brings her family, and indeed all those grieving, some comfort at this sad time.”