Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving monarch in British history and an icon instantly recognisable to billions of people around the world has died aged 96, Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday.
Her eldest son, Charles, 73, succeeds as king immediately, according to centuries of protocol, beginning a new, less certain chapter for the royal family after the queen’s record-breaking 70-year reign.
“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,” Buckingham Palace said.
READ ALSO: Queen Elizabeth II Has Died Aged 96 – Buckingham Palace Announces
Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-reigning monarch in British history and the world’s oldest head of state. On her death, the Queen’s eldest son and heir, Charles, the former Prince of Wales, has become King of the United Kingdom and 14 Commonwealth realms.
No official details have been released about what will happen over the coming days, but it is anticipated that the Queen will be given a full state funeral, as is traditional to mark the death of a monarch.
READ ALSO: Queen Elizabeth To Miss Today’s Platinum Jubilee Thanksgiving Service Due To Mobility Issues
It is also expected that her body will lie in state to allow the public to pay tribute. The King will sign off the final plans in the coming days.
