CALLS have been made for the Queen’s funeral to be aired on a big screen to allow mourners to gather and pay their respects on what is set to be an historic day.

Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral will be held at Westminster Abbey on Monday, September 19 – which will be a national bank holiday.

The service is expected to be attended by leaders and dignitaries from around the world.

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Calls have been growing for the council to put plans in place to show the funeral on a big screen in the city.

Southend resident Scott Inness, 44, said: “It’s such a momentous occasion, and we all want to be able to pay our respects properly.

“I think it would be great if an event was hosted where people can gather and watch it together.”

One location that could host a potential screening is the big screen in Elmer Square which is jointly run by the council.

Southend mayor councillor Kevin Robinson says the council will be convening this week to work on plans for the funeral.

“We have yet to confirm any concrete plans,” he said.

“The council has a role to play in making sure the city can watch the funeral, and we will take a look at that.”

He added: “We want to help residents commemorate the event in a way that is personal to them.

“I have spoken with many residents in the last few days, laying floral tributes, or signing books of condolence at local churches.

“We will look to try and facilitate that in the coming days.”

Basildon Council has also yet to confirm any plans for the bank holiday Monday.

Councillor Kerry Smith says the council should look into planting trees across the borough in her memory on the Monday.

“It may be hard to get the right facilities in place to host a screening,” he said.

“Instead, there are a lot of people who have asked me about planting trees in her memory, which is something we should look into.”

Churches across Southend will be open on Monday, for residents who wish to pay their respects.

Jonathan Evens, team Rector in the Wickford and Runwell Ministry, said: “Our churches will continue to be open, with books of condolence open for signing, and candles available to be lit and laid out in respect.

“We have commemoration services at 7.30pm on Friday at each of our three churches, St Andrews in Wickford, St Catherine in Wickord and St Mary’s in Runwell.”

A spokesman for the Diocese of Chelmsford said: “Parish churches, across Essex and East London have been open for prayer, reflection and services following the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“Many churches across our diocese are open to offer people a quiet, prayerful space, the opportunity to light a candle or to sign a Book of Condolence.

“During this time of national mourning, everyone is welcome at Chelmsford Cathedral to pay their respects and reflect on the life and service of Queen Elizabeth II by lighting a candle and signing the Books of Condolence.”