Remembering Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
The death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday evening is a very sad moment in the history of our nation.
Queen Elizabeth II was a caring, steadfast leader who saw the people of the UK, and beyond, through so much, especially during the pandemic. Most of us will never have met her yet she holds a special place in our hearts.
Each of us will wish to remember her in our own way but I wanted to email to share some of the opportunities that we have locally to remember Her Majesty and be part of events to remember her, and welcome our new King, Charles III.
Books of Condolence
Many churches across Guildford, the Cathedral and Guildford Borough Council are running Books of Condolence where you can share your memories and condolences. You can find out information on how to sign the Guildford Borough Council Books here. You can also submit your message of condolence here online if you are unable to visit in person.
If you live in the Waverley part of Guildford constituency (Cranleigh, Ewhurst and surrounding villages) there are Books of Condolence for local residents to sign at the Waverley Borough Council offices in Godalming during their standard opening times, or at Godalming Museum, at the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul, and at St John's Church in Farncombe.
A National Book of Condolence is also available here.
Flowers - Waverley Borough only
Flowers can be laid at the Pepperpot in Godalming or at the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul.
- Flowers should not be wrapped in paper or plastic
- Flowers not placed in the designated area may be moved to the official area
- Gift cards and other items will not be kept
- Flowers will be removed the day after the funeral and be composted
Rather than purchasing flowers, you may wish to consider making a donation to one of the Queen's chosen charities. More information on the Queen's official patronages is available on The Royal Family website.
Proclamation of the New King
Local residents are welcome to attend the Surrey and Guildford readings of the proclamation of the new king that are taking place in Guildford on Sunday 11th September.
In Surrey, it will be read at Guildford Cathedral by His Honour Christopher Critchlow the High Sheriff of Surrey accompanied by Michael More-Molyneux the Lord-Lieutenant on Sunday 11 September from 1pm. Please visit the Guildford Cathedral website for more details.
In Guildford, it will be read on the steps of Holy Trinity Church in our High Street by our Mayor Cllr Dennis Booth at 3pm. Residents are welcome to attend.
In Waverley Borough, The Mayor of Waverley, Councillor John Ward, will read the Accession Proclamation in the Council Chamber, Godalming at 3.30pm on Sunday 11 September. The Proclamation will be webcast live and viewable on the Waverley Borough Council Youtube channel.
These coming days and weeks will be difficult for many in our community - whether you find yourself trying to explain the Queen's passing to children, or because it causes memories of loved ones who have died to resurface. I am therefore sharing below a few sources of support that I hope you will find helpful.
Supporting young people after the death of the Queen - really helpful guidance from the charity Winston's Wish.
Cruse Bereavement Support - their national bereavement helpline 0808 808 1677 is open 10am-4pm this weekend for anyone struggling following the news of the Queen's death.
The Samaritans - are available 24/7, 365 days a year if you need to talk. You can contact them online or on 116 123.
Do take care of yourself and those around you at this difficult time.
Best wishes,
Zöe Franklin
Parliamentary Candidate for Guildford, Cranleigh and our Villages
10th September 2022