The Bishop of Dudley has paid tribute to The Queen shortly after the announcement of her death this evening.

The Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, said: “Like most people in the UK today, Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II has been the only monarch I have ever known, as she came to the throne ten years before I was born.

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"My parents lived through World War Two and they particularly remembered how the young princess comforted people whose houses had been destroyed in the Blitz. When I was fifteen, she passed our house during her Silver Jubilee procession around the country.

"There was a carnival atmosphere and street had been crowded for hours just to see her drive through. Later in life I was privileged to meet HM the Queen in person which was always a delight and privilege.

"She was a sincere and prayerful Christian lady. Her Christmas broadcasts often went to the heart of her faith in ways that embraced the diversity of the nation and commonwealth.

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"She lived out her calling to lead this country in the ways of righteousness and peace and was more than worthy of the titles she held under God: Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and Defender of the Faith. 

"We mourn her passing. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.”