On September 8^th, 2022, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away at age 96 at Balmoral Castle, Scotland. This marked the end of the longest reign of a British monarch, with Her Majesty enjoying 70 years on the throne.

Our Premier, the Hon. E David Burt honoured Her Majesty’s legacy and dutiful commitment to service of the UK, Commonwealth and Realms, reflecting on “a life of undimmed duty, a model of strength and devotion to country, Queen Elizabeth’s reign has spanned decades of such immense change for the United Kingdom and the world. The recognition of her longevity and the significance of her service affords this consequential reign a unique place in history. On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I express sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom.”

Meanwhile, on island, the Queen’s life was celebrated with the Governor, Her Excellency Rena Lalgie, declaring September 18^th to be a public holiday to coincide with the UK National Day of Mourning and the State Funeral of Her Majesty. Queen Elizabeth II’s passing was marked with flags across the island being lowered to half-mast and a 21-rifle salute staged by the Royal Bermuda Regiment at Government House. Public tributes also poured in to acknowledge the Queen’s service to Bermuda as the oldest Overseas Territory, and images of her previous five visits were circulated as a reminder of the fondness she held for the island. Later in the week, dignitaries and members of the public gathered at the Flagpole on Front Street to hear the Governor’s Proclamation announcing the Accession of His Majesty King Charles III.

To mark this sombre and historic occasion, both the Premier and Governor of Bermuda attended the Queen’s State Funeral in Westminster Abbey on September 18th, standing proud alongside leaders and monarchs from around the world. Other events attended to celebrate the Queen’s life included the Governor and UK Representative for the Government of Bermuda, Kimberley Durrant, visiting the Queen’s Lying in State and signing the Book of Condolences in Lancaster House on behalf of the people of Bermuda.

Bermuda looks forward to maintaining its special relationship with His Majesty King Charles III. God save the King!