Councils are pushing ahead with emergency protocols following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Tributes have flooded in from councils as they prepare to launch remembrance services and books of condolence across the country after her death was announced yesterday.

Local Government Association chairman, James Jamieson, expressed his condolences on behalf of local authorities in England and Wales.

He said: ‘Councils have been proud to serve Her Majesty throughout her reign and will continue to do so by now putting into place local arrangements to support the public in expressing their own sympathies.

‘These arrangements will include the opening of both public and virtual books of condolence, ensuring flags are flown at half mast and overseeing arrangements for the laying of flowers in public areas.'

Welsh Local Government Association leader, Cllr Andrew Morgan, said there was ‘profound sadness' following the news.

He said: ‘Queen Elizabeth will be remembered as a towering figure of global modern history but legions of Welsh people will fondly recall her constant reassurance to countless local communities in good times and bad.

‘On behalf of Welsh local government, we extend our sincerest condolences to His Majesty the King and the Royal Family in their grief.'

As the news broke, the second day of the Solace Wales in Cardiff conference was cancelled as chief executives rushed back to their town halls to carry out their duties.

President of the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, Shona Morrison, said:  ‘Our thoughts and condolences go to the Royal Family and all those who mourn the loss of Her Majesty the Queen at this time of great sadness.   

'She has devoted her life to public service and tirelessly served the people of the Commonwealth.'

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is expected to brief council chief executives on their next moves at 11am today.

It is understood the department refreshed Operation London Bridge – the codename given to plans for the Queen's death – earlier this year.  

Andy Allsopp, joint chair of LGComms, told The MJ: ‘Local government will play its role.'

The latest guidance was developed after a review of planning following the funeral of the Queen's husband Prince Philip last year.