Sussex Police chief pays tribute to the Queen following her death

Jo Shiner paid tribute to the Queen in a letter sent to local residents yesterday evening. 

She described the news as “a significant moment in our nation’s history” and said the loss would be felt around the world.

Chief Constable Shiner said: “Her Royal Highness was the longest reigning monarch in British history, giving 70 years of dedicated public service to the UK and the Commonwealth. More can be read about her reign and her work on the Royal Family website.

“Over the years Sussex has been graced with many royal visits. Among them in 1962 the Queen officially opened the George Street Renovation Scheme in Hove and as patron of the South of England Show the Queen attended in 1984 and again in 2002.

Sussex Police Chief Constable Jo Shiner (Image: Sussex Police)

“In 2013 the Queen and Prince Phillip toured Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes, most recently attending dog charity Canine Partners in Midhurst and the Chichester Festival Theatre in 2017.”

• READ MORE: Pictures from the Queen's previous visits to Sussex after she dies aged 96

She went on to add that Sussex Police will be preparing to “play our part” in the policing operation for the Queen’s funeral. 

CC Shiner also clarified the force’s plans over the mourning period, which began today. 

The Queen smiling in Newhaven in 2013 (Image: The Argus)

She said: “As a mark of respect, Union Flags will be flown at half-mast on our buildings for the duration of the national mourning period. 

“They will be raised for the proclamation of the new monarch and then lowered again in line with national protocol.

“Please be assured that we will continue to deliver policing in our communities as normal as well as provide any resourcing needed during this sad occasion.

“On behalf of teams across the force I have extended my heartfelt and sincere condolences to the Royal Family.

“May Her Majesty rest in peace.”