People living in care homes in Oldham have been paying their respects to Queen Elizabeth II, as the Mayor of Oldham and the Leader of Oldham Council have been visiting them with Books of Condolence to sign.
With many care home residents unable to visit venues across the borough to sign Books of Condolence, the Mayor Cllr Elaine Garry and Cllr Amanda Chadderton have brought a book to them instead, so they may sign their tributes.
During a recent visit to Longwood Lodge Care Home, in Queens Road, Cllr Chadderton and the Mayor met 88-year-old Joseph Stott who, at the age of 18, served as a Royal Guard for the Queen during his National Service.
Joseph proudly displays a picture of himself in the red tunic and bearskin hat on his wall for all to see.
The Mayor and Cllr Chadderton also spoke to 81-year-old Margaret Carr, who herself met the Queen on three separate occasions. Margaret shared a story with them of the day Her Majesty visited her son’s business.
Cllr Chadderton said: “It was lovely to meet many of our care home residents and to make sure they didn't miss out on the chance to pay their own respects to the Queen by signing a Book of Condolence.
“They shared with us their fond memories of her seven decades as our Queen, and some of the people we spoke to were even fortunate enough to have met her in person.
“The Queen brought so much warmth and comfort to so many people over her 70-year reign, and I know so many of us have been inspired by her lifelong dedication to public service.”
The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Garry, added: “We’ve heard so many stories of how much people loved Her Majesty The Queen, and it’s clear to see she has touched so many lives through her many years of service to our country.
"She is already very much missed, but will never be forgotten."
Books of Condolence can still be signed at locations across the borough until the day of Her Majesty’s State Funeral on Monday 19 September.
Residents can also still lay floral tributes, while a special Civic Commemorative inter-faith church service will be held at Oldham Parish Church on Sunday, 18 September from 6pm.
The service will be led by Revd Canon Jean Hurlston and it is open to people of all faiths. Following the service there will be a National Moment of Reflection at 8pm.
As declared by the King, Monday will be a Bank Holiday to enable people to watch Her Majesty’s funeral and pay their respects.
Council services will be running at reduced levels, and all schools and council buildings accessible to the public will be closed.
However, access will be available so that residents are able to sign Books of Condolence that day at Oldham Civic Centre and also at Oldham Parish Church.
For more information on council services and all other arrangements for this weekend and the Bank Holiday, visit https://www.oldham.gov.uk/queenelizabethii
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