Buckingham Palace has announced the death of Queen Elizabeth II, aged 96. They said that she died peacefully this afternoon at Balmoral. Her family had gathered at her Scottish estate after concerns grew about her health earlier on Today.

She came to the throne in 1952 and reigned for 70 years.

Her eldest son Charles, the former Prince of Wales, will lead the country in mourning as the new King and head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.

She was respected throughout the world for her dignified manner, and her humility.

She will be sadly missed by all.