THE FIRST floral tributes have been laid at Worcester Cathedral in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.

Tonight, the flag at The Guildhall is flying at half mast and the Book of Condolence has been opened inside the hall.

Tributes have been pouring in for the Queen after Buckingham Palace announced her death this evening.

It was announced The Queen has died, aged 96, at 6.30pm this evening (Thursday).

A statement confirming the news read: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.

"The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."

Worcester News: FLOWERS: Tributes placed at Worcester CathedralFLOWERS: Tributes placed at Worcester Cathedral (Image: Newsquest)

Worcester's MP Robin Walker said: "A spectacular life of service and a promise firmly kept to dedicate her whole life to the people of this country and the Commonwealth - May she rest in peace. God save the King."

Worcester City Council has now confirmed that residents will be able to pay their respects with the opening of ten books of condolence across the city.

Worcester News: BOOK OF CONDOLENCE: Tributes are being left in The Guildhall to Queen Elizabeth IIBOOK OF CONDOLENCE: Tributes are being left in The Guildhall to Queen Elizabeth II (Image: Newsquest)

The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Adrian Gregson, said: "The Councillors and Officers of Worcester City Council are deeply saddened at the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

"Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time."

Worcester News: RESPECT: The Union flag is flying at half mast at Worcester CathedralRESPECT: The Union flag is flying at half mast at Worcester Cathedral (Image: Newsquest)

Books of condolence will also be opened at Worcester Cathedral, St George's Catholic Church, County Hall, the University of Worcester, Worcester Hospital, Warndon Library, Lyppard Hub, St John's Library, and The Hive.