Mourners have begun to lay flowers near Southend Council's Civic Centre as a book of condolence has been opened for all to sign.

Southend West MP Anna Firth and Rochford and Southend East MP James Duddridge have both signed the city's book of condolence.

In a statement yesterday Ms Firth offered her “thoughts and prayers” to the Royal Family.

She said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

“For over 70 years, The Queen has been at the head and heart of our country and the Commonwealth, and all of us owe her a huge debt of gratitude for her service.”

Council leader Stephen George and councillor Carole Mulroney also joined the MPs in signing Southend Council's book of condolence.

Echo: Carole Mulroney and Stephen George sign the book of condolenceCarole Mulroney and Stephen George sign the book of condolence (Image: Newsquest)

The mayor of Southend, Kevin Robinson, said: “We join the rest of the nation in expressing our very great sadness at the announcement today regarding the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

“Her Majesty The Queen was our longest reigning Monarch, and is rightly loved and respected across the world. Our thoughts are with The Royal Family at this deeply sad time.

Echo: One of the floral tributes to Queen Elizabeth II left at Southend Civic CentreOne of the floral tributes to Queen Elizabeth II left at Southend Civic Centre (Image: Newsquest)

“Flags across our civic buildings will be flown at half-mast and a letter of condolence will be sent to the Queen’s personal secretary expressing our sympathies."

The official book of condolence opened from 1pm today. Floral tributes should be left at the fountain outside the Civic Centre.

The council says it will make further announcements about any local arrangements or events to mark this news in due course.

The Echo is launching a book of condolences for readers and families to share their memories, thoughts and respects to The Queen. Pay your respects here.