We are truly saddened by the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen and offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family. She was a loyal and dedicated member of the WI for 80 years, and never failed to show her support for us throughout her time as Queen. We thank her for her dedication, service and fellowship. Many of our members have fond memories of her and will treasure these for years to come.

Lay still your tongues and bow your heads,
lower the flags, our Queen is dead.
Put down your work, set games aside,
silence the songs, our Queen has died.
Stand in the streets, pause in the rush,
think of her now, amid the hush;
in the time before the tribute drum,
‘til the bugles call and the eulogies come.
Hold back the words, make no speeches today,
reflect on the debt we may never repay.
A beacon of light, a life lived well,
give thanks for our Queen, toll the mourning bell.
Grieve now a while, let the Nations weep
for our greatest Queen in her final sleep.
Then raise up your hearts, let her legacy sing,
Great Britain unite and stand by our King.
The future is ours in a world made bright,
by the strength of her love and eternal light.

Philippa Atkin