THURROCK residents are being invited to leave floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II at the memorial site in Grays Town Park. 

Speaking after the announcement earlier today (Thursday, 8 September) of the death of the Queen, Thurrock mayor Cllr James Halden said: "I offer my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the royal family on behalf of the whole Thurrock community at this difficult time.

"Millions of families, like mine, would have experienced the most profound pause today as we waited for news. This pause would become great grief. However, it is my believe that this grief will yield for gratitude, thankfulness and joy for the life of the greatest Head of State. 

"Many of our older residents may remember Her Majesty's visit to Tilbury, Chadwell St Mary, West Thurrock and East Tilbury following the flooding in the borough in 1953. This created a wonderful morale boost at a very challenging time for our communities. 

"In 2012, more than 30 street parties took place in the borough to celebrate Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee. And earlier this year, our communities took part in many celebratory Platinum Jubilee activities, including lighting beacons, opening a new footbridge bridge and members of our community being a part of the official Jubilee Pageant in London."

Cllr Halden says he will be sending a letter of condolence to His Majesty The King on behalf of members and officers of Thurrock Council and the people of Thurrock.

During the mourning period, flags will be flown at half-mast at the Civic Offices in Grays, at Tilbury Civic Square and at Coalhouse Fort. Members of Thurrock Royal British Legion lowered the flag at the High Street war memorial this afternoon.

A physical 'Book of Condolence' for residents wishing to express their sympathies will be opened at the council offices in Grays as of 10am tomorrow (Friday, 9 September). 

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Floral tributes to the late Queen may be left at the Grays Park Memorial, in Grays Town Park.