Books of condolence will be be open all week in Greenwich, Woolwich and Eltham after the death of the Queen last Thursday.
The new King, Charles III, was proclaimed at Woolwich Town Hall by the borough’s ceremonial mayor, Leo Fletcher, in a ceremony which was also performed by councils up and down the country.
Residents can sign books of condolence at the Greenwich Centre (8am to 8pm weekdays, 8am to 5pm at weekends), Woolwich Centre (8am to 8pm) and Eltham Centre (8am to 8pm) until next Tuesday. A book of condolence has also been opened at the National Maritime Museum.
Greenwich was made a royal borough in 2012 to mark Elizabeth’s diamond jubilee and local politicians highlighted her links with the area when paying tribute.
Anthony Okereke, the council leader, said: “The Queen was a remarkable sovereign who leaves behind a hole in our borough and our hearts. The example she set as a public servant was a humbling demonstration of a life dedicated to duty and the diverse communities she represented as Head of State. She was an inspiration to us all.”
Fletcher said: “She was not just a figurehead of our nation, but an inspiration to everyone in public life. Her dedication to the communities and people she served was unwavering; her quiet leadership, the rock that supported our country through unprecedented times of success and despair.”
Yesterday’s ceremony at Woolwich Town Hall featured the Woolwich Singers singing God Save The King.
Councillors have been summoned to a special meeting this Wednesday to mark the monarch’s passing. Other business has been put on hold until after the Queen’s funeral next Monday. Meetings will resume the following day, when the planning board is set to discuss the new Woolwich leisure centre.
In Lewisham, books of condolence have been opened at the Civic Suite in Catford, Deptford Lounge and Downham Library.
Its proclamation ceremony was held outside the town hall in Catford, conducted by the council’s speaker, Tauseef Fanwar. It also featured a rendition of the national anthem led by one of the borough’s councillors, Suzannah Clarke, who is a professional opera singer.
BBC London News report from Saturday used by arrangement with BBC Local News Partnerships
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