The Dispensing Doctors’ Association pays tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who died yesterday.

DDA chairman Dr Richard West said: “We mourn with the nation in our loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who has been a model of dedicated service for over 70 years. She demonstrated unreserved commitment to health and care.

“Our thoughts are with her family and King Charles III, as he takes to his new responsibility as monarch and King.”

Friday 9 September has now been officially designated as the Day of Death, with all subsequent days of mourning numbered after this day.

The state funeral will take place on Monday 19 September, and will be classed as an official day of national mourning.

The proclamation of the new monarch is expected tomorrow (Saturday) at 11am.