The Chief Fire Officer of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) has paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty earlier today and there is a sombre mood across the nation today.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther said: “We at TWFRS want to offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this time.

“This is a deeply sad day and the flags at community fire stations across our region have been lowered to half-mast.

“Her Majesty always put public duty first and that is something we can all resonate with as public servants ourselves.

“Like many at TWFRS, I hold a great deal of respect for Her Majesty and everything she has achieved during her time as our country’s monarch.

“The awarding of the Queen’s Medal was one of the proudest moments of my career and it is something I will cherish forever.

“I alongside members of the Service will be in attendance at a number of ceremonial events across our region in the coming days and weeks to represent TWFRS.

“It will be a sombre time but I also know it will bring our communities even closer together on what is a significant day in our country’s history.

“We will continue to carry out our duty, as Her Majesty did in times of tragedy, and we will be here to keep you safe if you need our help.”