By Cecilia Nasmith
Among the tributes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, count local dignitaries among those mourning her passing.
In Cobourg – just hours after the town announced it was lowering Victoria Hall's flags to half-staff in solidarity with the people of Saskatchewan whose last few days have been under the shadow of two mass murderers on a spree – the announcement came that flags “across the town” are being lowered in honour of the late beloved monarch.
A book of condolences will be set up in Victoria Hall (55 King St. W.) for those who would like to sign before it is forwarded to the Palace the week of Oct. 3.
The town sends its condolences to King Charles III, the announcement said, along with wishes for great success as he embarks on a new era of the Monarchy.
“Her Majesty the Queen led with dignity and perseverance for 70 years,” Mayor John Henderson said.
“During her time, she oversaw countries at war, experienced great personal tragedy, and embraced a rapidly changing world that led to a new age of how the Monarchy engages with the public. Throughout the years, she remained dedicated to her position and her posting.”
Flags at all Northumberland County buildings have also been lowered to half-mast in tribute, and will remain so until sunset on the day of her memorial service.
The county's announcement noted the Queen's “profound sense of duty and an enduring commitment to public service. Through political and societal change across the decades, her presence was a stabilizing force for the Commonwealth.
“As Canada's Head of State, she visited our nation more than any other, referring to Canada as her 'second home,'” the press release continued.
“Our community was honoured to receive the Queen and her husband Prince Philip when they visited the Municipality of Port Hope in 1959 and the Town of Cobourg in 1977 on Royal Tours of Canada. It is a connection we will long cherish in reflecting on her reign.”
