MORE than 4,000 messages of condolence for were left for the Queen at Worcester Guildhall throughout the recent period of mourning.

In total, 4,450 messages were left in the books of condolence opened at Worcester Guildhall following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday, September 8.

Worcester City Council opened the books within hours of the news being released by Buckingham Palace.

The first message to be left was from the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Adrian Gregson.

The Guildhall extended its opening hours throughout the period of national mourning to give city residents and visitors the chance to leave their memorial messages to the late monarch.

The books were closed on Tuesday, September 20 at 6pm.

Throughout the period of National Mourning the Mayor’s macebearers were on duty to greet people and help them on their visit to the Guildhall.

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The Mayor also joined the macebearers during the week, to meet mourners in person.

The Mayor said: “People of every age, creed, and persuasion came to the Guildhall to sign the Books of Condolence and I was struck by the amount of children and young people expressing their sorrow and respect.

“I want to thank the Guildhall staff, especially the small team of macebearers, who worked over and above expectation to add dignity and solemnity to this historic occasion.”

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The Books of Condolence will be passed to the Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service for safekeeping.

The city council’s managing director will write to King Charles III to inform him that the books are available for him and the Royal Family to view at their convenience.