A POIGNANT service brought leading Colchester civic figures together to celebrate the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Colchester mayor Tim Young led a procession of dignitaries through the city to the service in St Peter’s Church, North Hill, on Sunday.

The Rev Mark Wallace was joined by the Bishop of Colchester Rt Rev Roger Morris and the mayor’s chaplain the Rev Sue Howlett to deliver the celebration.

Following the service, dignitaries, aldermen and councillors impeccably observed the national one minute silence at 8pm on the steps of the town hall in the High Street.

Among the faces involved included Colchester MP Will Quince, Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell, Garrison Commander Lt Col Ed Rankin and High Sheriff of Essex Nick Alston.

“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,” said Mr Young.

“Queen Elizabeth has been a loyal servant to this country and 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.”