The Royal Family release full statement following death of Queen

Buckingham Palace has released an official statement confirming the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in Balmoral on 8 September.

News of Her Majesty's passing was confirmed this evening, with an announcement posted to the gates of Buckingham Palace, and to the official website of the Royal Family.

It comes after the Queen's children and grandchildren gathered at her estate in Scotland amid the news that her doctors were concerned for her health.

"The Queen's doctors have recommended she remain under medical supervision," a statement said earlier today, adding that she was 'comfortable'.

Prince William and Harry were among those who travelled to the estate prior to the official announcement from Buckingham Palace this evening, which read as follows: "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."

In the wake of the Queen's death, her eldest son Charles became King of the United Kingdom, with his wife Camilla becoming his consort.

Prime Minister Liz Truss named Charles as King Charles III, while commenting on the Queen's passing this evening from Downing Street, saying: “We are all devastated."

"It is a day of great loss, but Queen Elizabeth II leaves a great legacy," Truss continued.

"It’s an extraordinary achievement to have presided with such dignity and grace for 70 years. Her life of service stretched beyond most of our living memories. In return she was loved and admired by the people in the United Kingdom and all around the world.

“She has been a personal inspiration to me and to many Britons – her devotion to duty is an example to us all.”

Truss added: "Britain is the great country it is today thanks to her… She was the very spirit of Great Britain, and that spirit will endure.”

Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne on 6 February 1952 and became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, which she marked in February 2022.

The Queen leaves behind four children, Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Prince Harry, Prince William, Peter Phillips, Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.  

King Charles III described the loss of his mother as 'a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family'.