The Bishop of Portsmouth has paid tribute to HM the Queen as the news of her death was announced.

The Rt Rev Jonathan Frost said: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II served our nation with integrity, devotion and wisdom. Living faith in Jesus Christ gave her a spiritual compass in daily life and provided a source of steady inspiration for many within the Church, Nation and Commonwealth. On this day in which sadness and thanksgiving join hands, I pray with heartfelt gratitude for her life and faithful service.

“Her Majesty’s death will be deeply felt by very many and perhaps especially by her family. Conscious of the widespread public attention they will receive, we pray today that the Royal Family may know the consolation of Christ’s love in their loss.”

Parish churches across the diocese, which covers south-east Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, will be opening their buildings to allow people to sign condolence books and light candles, as they also thank God for her life. Portsmouth Cathedral is open from 8am-7pm daily, to allow people to say prayers, sign their condolence book and light candles.

Churches across the diocese will also hold special thanksgiving services ahead of the funeral, to which civic dignitaries and any who wish to thank God for her life will be invited. Full details of those services will be added to this website.