If you are outside the UK, you may not be receiving the emails and messages of the following kind, so I am reproducing two of them here to give you a flavour of the tone that shows the feeling behind the headlines.
From The Royal Society For the Protection Of Birds
Hello David
As you will no doubt have heard, last night Buckingham Palace announced the death of Her Majesty The Queen, who has passed away at the age of 96.
We are deeply saddened by the news. Throughout her long reign The Queen showed unstinting dedication to public service and charitable causes and we are grateful for the support that she showed the RSPB as our patron. You can read more about her contribution to nature conservation in our tribute.
As a mark of respect, the facilities on our reserves will be closed today (9 September) and on the day of Her Majesty’s funeral. However, all trails will remain open, should you wish to take a moment in nature to pause and reflect.
The Queen was acutely aware of the need to restore natural habitats, for the benefit of wildlife, people and the planet, and, as we look ahead to a new era for the United Kingdom, I can assure you that all of us here at the RSPB will remain committed to creating a world richer in nature.
With best wishes,
Beccy Speight
RSPB Chief Executive
From Marks and Spencer PLC
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. For over seventy years she has dedicated her life to service for her country and the Commonwealth, and been a figurehead of national unity and stability at a time of enormous change.
She has led at all times with a quiet determination and selfless devotion, and has been all that is the very best in us. While being Monarch she has raised a loving family whom she adored, and they her. As HRH Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh was to her, she has been our nation’s strength and stay.
We join the Royal Family and the nation in their grief and offer the Royal Family our heartfelt condolences.
Your M&S Family
Photo: Leaves in the hollow of a stone following rain
Photograph Works 