Our arrangements to mark the death of The Queen are listed below.

Books of condolence

We have a book of condolence available for signing at:

  • the council chamber at Tonbridge Castle. Open from 9am to 5pm, seven days a week until 5pm on Tuesday 20 September

You can also lay floral tributes.

The Royal Family has opened an online book of condolence.

National moment of reflection

On Sunday 18 September people took part in a minute’s silence. During that time people came together, as communities, families and individuals to reflect on the lifetime of service which Her late Majesty devoted to the United Kingdom, the Realms and Territories and to the Commonwealth.

The Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Sue Bell, said: ‘The outpouring of love and respect for The Queen both locally and nationally has been truly incredible. I urge everyone to observe the minute’s silence and pause to reflect on The Queen’s immeasurable contribution to our great country, her lifetime of service and the impact she had on people around the world.’

The State Funeral and Committal Service for Her Majesty The Queen

The State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II took place at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19 September at 11am. At approximately 11:55am, Last Post was sounded followed by a Two Minute Silence, observed throughout the United Kingdom.

At Tonbridge Castle and Manor Park in West Malling, maroons were fired to mark the start and end of the silence. 

See The State Funeral and Committal Service for Her Majesty The Queen.

Mayor's statement

The Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Sue Bell, issued this statement following the announcement on 8 September 2022 of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"Today’s sad news will be felt deeply by citizens here and around the world who recognise the contribution Her Majesty made to life in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth throughout her reign. 

"On behalf of the council and the people of Tonbridge and Malling, I offer our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family. As a nation, we share their grief at the loss of a truly remarkable monarch whose spirit of public service never wavered and whose wisdom and warmth touched everyone she met.

"As we begin a period of national mourning, the sense of collective loss we feel may be tempered by the knowledge that Her Majesty’s legacy and unique place in our hearts will never be forgotten."  

Proclamation

The public attended a reading of the Proclamation marking the accession of King Charles III to the throne. The reading took place in the grounds of Tonbridge Castle at 3pm on Sunday 11 September and was read by the Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Sue Bell. Music was provided by the 17 Tonbridge Scout and Guide Band from 2.30pm. The castle flag flew at full-mast for this ceremony. Watch the Public Proclamation by Cllr Sue Bell.

Message from Puy en Velay Twinning Committee

The members of the Puy en Velay Committee offer their sincere condolences to their friends in Tonbridge on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

The United Kingdom loses a great Lady, much loved by the French and who has been the leaven of peace between the countries.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

With all our friendship.