THERE has been an outpouring of grief across Brighton for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Residents, businesses and other organisations have been paying heartfelt tributes to the monarch following her death at Balmoral on Thursday.

Flowers have been laid outside the Royal Pavilion and special areas were set up in churches and other public spaces where people could pay respects and sign books of condolence.

The party leaders of Brighton and Hove City Council said in a joint statement: “We join with people around the world in noting with sadness the announcement from the Palace. Queen Elizabeth II was our country’s longest-reigning monarch and has shown remarkable dedication as the head of state over many decades.

“The Queen succeeded to the throne before any of the four of us were born and that’s true for most residents in our city. This is a historic moment that people will look back on, remembering when and where they heard the news.

“On behalf of Brighton and Hove, we send our condolences to the Royal Family and all who are affected by this sad news.”

A photo of the Queen was placed outside the Royal Pavilion and it was soon surrounded by bunches of flowers from well wishers.

Books of condolences have also been set up at all three town halls in Brighton, Hove and Portslade.

Churches are open for mourners to pay their respects through prayer and the lighting of candles.

A statement from the Dean of Chichester Cathedral, the Very Reverend Stephen Waine, said: “Many have paid tribute to the Queen’s careful attention to matters of state, her great wisdom accumulated through the many years of her reign, and her concern for the wellbeing and flourishing of communities and individuals.

“As we absorb this news, we do so with thanksgiving to God for her self-giving devotion, her steadfast Christian faith and service.”

Many events across the city are being cancelled or postponed as a result of the period of mourning.

Brighton and Hove Albion’s Premier League match against AFC Bournemouth has been postponed, as well as food festival Pub in the Park, which was due to take place on Friday, September 16. This will now go ahead next year.