Tributes are pouring in in Dorchester following the announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Queen passed away peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon, according to Buckingham Palace.

West Dorset MP Chris Loder, said: "I am so immensely sad to learn of the death of Her Majesty The Queen.

"Queen Elizabeth has been our monarch for 70 years. The most incredible Head of the nation and the commonwealth, a true constant in all our lives, she leaves the most enormous void. Queen Elizabeth has visited us in West Dorset on many occasions and on behalf of the people of West Dorset I extend my deepest sympathies to the Royal Family as we share in their grief and to whom I send our deepest condolences. God save the King."

Janet Hewitt, Mayor of Dorchester, commented: "It is with great sadness that we have learnt the news that Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth ll, has passed away. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time.

"The Queen demonstrated immense dedication and commitment to duty, she was the longest-serving British monarch ever having reigned for seventy years.

"On behalf of the people of Dorchester, I will send letters of condolence to the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Royal Family to express the Town's deep sorrow.

"In accordance with the protocol, the Union Flag will be flown at Half Mast at the Municipal Buildings and in Borough Gardens."

Flowers may be laid at the bandstand in Borough Gardens. The flowers will be removed one week after the funeral. They will be composted and used to plant a commemorative tree.

A book of condolence will be available at the Town Council offices, 19 North Square, Dorchester Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.

Councillor Val Pothecary, Chairman of Dorset Council, said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family and the country as we mourn the loss of Her Majesty, and I would like to offer them our heartfelt condolences.

"We give thanks for her wonderful life and years of devotion to serving the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. She has been an inspiration to us all."