THE great and the good in the civic life of Colchester will remember the Queen on this evening with a special commemoration to honour the UK’s longest serving monarch.

Taking place from 6pm at St Peter’s Church, North Hill, councillors, honorary aldermen and dignitaries have been invited to accompany Colchester mayor Tim Young in a special procession to the church starting from Colchester Town Hall at 5.45pm.

Also due to be in attendance at the ceremony will be Colchester MP Will Quince, High Sheriff of Essex Nick Alston and Colchester’s Garrison Commander Lt Col Ed Rankin.

The Rev Mark Wallace will lead the service, where he will be joined by the Bishop of Colchester the Rt Rev Roger Morris and the mayor’s chaplain, the Rev Sue Howlett.

Mr Young, who also laid a floral tribute to the Queen at Colchester War Memorial last week, said Sunday evening’s service was a chance for everyone to pay tribute to the Queen's decades of public service.

He said: “I feel deeply honoured to be able to lead this procession as Colchester pays its respect to the Queen’s passing and celebrates her life.

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“It is a time when we will acknowledge Queen Elizabeth’s loyal service to this country, which has touched the hearts of millions of people, not just in the United Kingdom but throughout the Commonwealth and across the Globe.

“She was an exceptional person who devoted her life to her family, her nation, and the Commonwealth.”

Colchester Council leader David King, who is unable to attend Sunday’s ceremony, said:

”I have been to every single one of these events [over the years] and they have been a splendid confirmation of out loyalty to the crown.

“Although I can’t be there, I’m hoping the majority of councillors and other members of civic life will be there – because these things really matter.

“Later on Sunday evening, a one-minute silence – which is taking place across the country – will be observed by the dignitaries, aldermen, and councillors, with members of the public welcome to join.”

The Books of Condolence, which are open at the Town Hall, Hollytrees Museum, Mercury Theatre, St Peter’s Church, and Curzon Colchester Cinema, will be open until 5pm on Tuesday evening.