Civic leaders,  MPs and councillors from across Swindon expressed their sadness at the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth which was announced shortly after 6pm.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson responded to a tweet announcing the Queen’s death saying

“You have been a constant, dedicated & dutiful example for us all. We all feel a very personal loss and this is very sad news. RIP Ma’am.”

South Swindon MP and Secretary of State for Wales Robert Buckland simply retweeted the Palace’s official announcement.

Swindon Borough Council issued an official statement which said: “We are saddened to hear of the death of Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II and our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time.

“Our flags will fly at half-mast and further details of tribute locations and condolence books will be made available in the coming days.”

Councillor Abdul Amin, The Mayor of Swindon, said: “It is with great sadness that we hear of the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in British history.

“The Queen accomplished many things during her reign and never faltered in her commitment to the people of this country and the Commonwealth.  She saw many changes throughout her lifetime for which she will always be remembered.

“On behalf of the residents of Swindon I convey our deepest sympathy to the Royal Family at this very sad time.”

Leader of the council David Renard, added: “It is incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty served our country with great dignity and the longevity of her reign speaks for itself. The love and respect felt by the people of this country are an honour to her lifetime of commitment to us all.

“On behalf of everyone in Swindon, I would like to pass on our condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time."

Labour group leader Jim Robbins expressed the sorrow of the members of the party in the borough: “Swindon Labour Party were saddened to hear the news of the Queen's death and pay tribute to her many years of outstanding public service and leadership of the country and Commonwealth.

“She has been a constant in many people's lives and few Swindonians will remember the time before she was crowned. We send our condolences to the family. God save the King.”

Conservative councillor in Liden Eldene & Park South Bazil Solomon added his commiserations: “Our condolences and prayers are with the family of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”

Labour councillor for Lydiard & Freshbrook  Sean Wilson said: “It is extremely sad that the nation and the Swindon are mourning the death of the monarch.

“Queen Elizabeth was a stable force in the country for more than 70 years through changing times.

“She was a unifying presence and will be sadly missed."

Swindon Borough Council has set up a webpage to tell people of events such as the opening of a book of condolence through the next 12 days of official mourning.

It said people who want to leave floral tributes could do so at the Civic Offices in Euclid Street and said flowers left elsewhere might be removed if they are causing an obstruction.

Details on a book of condolences will follow in due course.