The announcement was made by Governor John Rankin earlier this evening. He noted condolence books will be available online at www.royal.uk website and the book that will be at the museum will open tomorrow.

“This will be open to the public from 11am-3pm on Friday 9th September, from 10am until 3pm on Saturday 10th September and then each day from Monday 12th September from 10am until 3pm until the funeral of HM The Queen. Further announcements will be made in due course,” the Governor said.

In his speech, Governor Rankin referenced the statement by Buckingham Palace on the Queen’s passing at Balmoral.

“I know the people of the British Virgin Islands will be deeply saddened by this news and will join me in a period of mourning for Her Majesty The Queen. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time,” Rankin said.

“Her Majesty gave exemplary and loyal service throughout her life. She was a friend to the British Virgin Islands visiting twice, in 1966 arriving on the Royal Yacht Britannia which was anchored in Road Harbour, and returning again in 1977 when she laid the foundation stone for a new wing of Peebles Hospital.,” he added.

He said the Queen will be remembered with great fondness and respect.