Axminster has been reacting to news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has died at the age of 96.

It was announced on Thursday evening that the Queen had died peacefully, surrounded by her immediate family at Balmoral Castle, after more than 70 years on the throne.

The Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Jill Farrow, quickly released the following statement: ""Axminster Town Council joins the rest of the country in expressing its profound sorrow on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"Her service to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, throughout her long and active life was unparalleled. We offer our deepest condolences to her family and all those who mourn her loss.

"God Save the King."

A book of condolence for residents to leave messages for the Queen will be opened at Axminster Town Council offices at the Guildhall today (Friday), from 9am.

Floral tributes can be laid on the Minster Green along the south face of the church (the side that overlooks the Old Courthouse, not the war memorial side).

Protocol states that all floral tributes laid should be free from cellophane/plastic sleeves/wrapping and that no non-floral tributes be laid, such as teddy bears, ornaments, artwork etc. Any such items left will be discretely removed in order to accord with these guidelines.

A statement from the town council said: "We would ask all visitors to be mindful of these requirements as set out in the guidance we have received from Buckingham Palace."

A proclamation of the new King Charles III will be made by the Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Jill Farrow, on the Minster Green at 12noon on Monday, September 12. All are welcome to attend.

Axminster county councillor and chair of Devon County Counci, Ian Hall, write a message of condolence for the Queen

Axminster county councillor and chair of Devon County Council, Ian Hall, was the first to write a message of condolence in a book at County Hall in Exeter.

He wrote: "On behalf of Devon County Council and the people of Devon, I offer my sincere condolences to the royal family on the death of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth.

"The loss of our sovereign will be felt across our county, the country and the globe.

"We thank you Ma'am for your selfless and unparalleled dedication to duty, which will serve to inspire us all.

"Faithfully, Cllr Ian Hall, chair of Devon County Council."

The book will be open for members of the public to leave messages at County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, during the following times:

• Friday (today) 1pm to 5pm
• Saturday 10 September – 9am to 5pm
• Sunday 11 September – 9am to 12pm
• Monday 12 September through to Sunday 18 September – 9am to 5pm

The book will also be open for one further day immediately following the funeral (date yet to be confirmed).