Released: 14 September 2022
People across West Sussex are paying their respects to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The period of National Mourning continues until the end of the day of the State Funeral, which is to be held in London on Monday 19 September 2022.
Messages of condolence and floral tributes
On behalf of the people of West Sussex, the Chairman of the County Council, Cllr Pete Bradbury, is sending a letter of heartfelt condolence to His Majesty King Charles III and the Royal Family on the death of Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II.
An online book of condolence is open on Buckingham Palace’s website.
Anyone who does not have online access can post a message of condolence to the Chairman’s Office, Room 102, West Sussex County Council, County Hall, Chichester PO19 1RQ.
The 36 libraries across West Sussex are on hand to support anyone who would like to use a public computer to access the online book of condolence. If you would prefer to record a written message, library staff can collect these to collate them with other written messages received by the Chairman.
For details of books of condolence across West Sussex, please see the online map on our webpage. If you are considering laying a floral tribute, please also consider the environment and carefully dispose of any wrapping beforehand.
National Moment of Reflection
The National Moment of Reflection will take place at 8pm on Sunday 18 September 2022, the night before the State Funeral, and be marked by a one-minute silence.
The silence can be marked privately at home, with friends and family, out on doorsteps or the street with neighbours, or at locally arranged community events and vigils.
See the gov.uk website for further information and links to larger-scale public events being held across the country.
The funeral will be televised. For those planning to travel, please also check travel information on the day(s) you are planning to attend.
Changes to County Council services’ opening times
The day of the State Funeral, Monday 19 September 2022, is a national bank holiday.
Some West Sussex County Council services will be closed as a result.
These include Recycling Centres, our 36 libraries, and our Customer Service Centre.
Further information on the County Council's bank holiday opening hours can be found on this website.
Bereavement support services
The passing of Queen Elizabeth II may be an emotional time for many.
Her Majesty has been a central part of our lives for so long and the period of national mourning is a chance to reflect on loved ones we’ve lost over the years.
If you’re deeply affected by the death of The Queen, you’re not alone. Read more from Cruse Bereavement Support.
