Queen Elizabeth II: Tributes, reaction and live updates as the people of Wigan join the nation in period of mourning
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As the period of mourning begins, here we will publish the tributes, reaction and latest news during this momentous time.
Updates as Wigan mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II
Mark Fisher CBE, chief executive of NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, said: “It is with great sorrow that we have learned of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.
“On behalf of the NHS in Greater Manchester, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and sincerest condolences to all the Royal Family. Throughout her life, Her Majesty the Queen served us all with unwavering loyalty, dedication and leadership; and her absence is something many of us will find difficult to accept.
“At this time, in addition to sharing a profound sense of loss, we recall with fondness the times we welcomed Her Majesty the Queen to Greater Manchester – opening new hospital wards, and the hand of friendship she extended to us after the Manchester Arena Attack. We were all moved by her visit and support to our city-region.
“We are honoured to have received such support from Her Majesty and will think of her visits with renewed warmth as we join the nation in mourning.”
The 10th annual Wigan 10k is due to be held on Sunday morning, starting and finishing at Mesnes Park. We’re waiting to hear from organisers at charity Joining Jack whether it is still going ahead.
Wigan borough’s MPs have paid their respects to the Queen, describing her as a “steady, reassuring presence” and “the grandmother of the nation”.
Wigan MP Lisa Nandy said: “For 70 years Queen Elizabeth II was a steady, reassuring presence in public life, an anchor for the nation in troubled times.
“During her long reign she visited Wigan on several occasions. She was deeply interested in the people of our town and her generosity and kindness has always meant a lot to us.
“She was admired by politicians across the political spectrum, standing above politics but with a deep respect for our democratic system. She was a role model for all of us in public life.”
Books of condolence open in Wigan and Leigh
Books of condolence have been opened in Wigan and Leigh and flowers are being laid in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.
People can pay their respects by writing special messages in the books at Wigan Town Hall, Leigh Town Hall and Wigan Parish Church.
Looking back at Queen Elizabeth II’s visits to Wigan borough
The Queen travelled all over the world during her 70 years on the throne, including making several visits to Wigan.
Here, we look back as she opened the Wigan Pier complex in 1986, celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Heinz factory in May 2009 and officially opened the Leigh Sports Village Stadium in May 2009.