Royal Standard raised above Buckingham Palace for the first time of the King’s reign
It comes after Charles III was appointed King following the death of the nation’s longest-reigning monarch, Elizabeth II.
King Charles III acceded to the throne immediately on the death of Elizabeth II, at the age of 96 in the sanctuary of Balmoral Castle.
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The Queen’s son and successor King Charles III spoke of his grief soon after Buckingham Palace announced the death of the 96-year-old monarch, who died “peacefully” on Thursday afternoon at Balmoral.
There were cheers from the crowds as the King’s state Bentley arrived at the gates of the Palace.
He stepped from the car to greet the hundreds of well-wishers gathered outside.
Charles shook hands with countless members of the public lined up behind a barrier, thanking them for their good wishes.
Cheers rang out at Buckingham Palace as the King and Queen arrived, along with shouts of “God save the King”.
Queen Elizabeth: Updates as Buckingham Palace announces the death of the Queen
The Queen was “frail” but in “good spirits” when PA photographer Jane Barlow took the last public pictures of her.
Stamps bearing the image of the Queen will remain valid following her death, Royal Mail has announced.
Special stamps already announced will still be issued, although there may be changes to when they are launched.
A Royal Mail statement said: “Following the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Royal Mail has confirmed that stamps bearing the image of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II remain valid for use.
“These include definitive stamps – regular ‘everyday’ stamps – and special stamps.
“As previously announced, following the introduction of barcodes to everyday stamps, these stamps remain valid until the end of January 2023.
“All special stamps that have already been announced will be issued, although the launch dates of some may change.
“In line with past practice, following the death of a monarch all existing post boxes will remain unchanged.
“Post boxes already in production or being prepared for installation will also retain the insignia of Queen Elizabeth II.”
The decision over whether Scottish football fixtures take place this weekend will be made by the SPFL themselves following the issue of government guidance.
BREAKING: The King and Queen have left Balmoral en route to Aberdeen airport where they will fly back to London.
The King was pictured in the back of a car, with the Queen in the front passenger seat, as they were driven in convoy over the River Dee towards Ballater.
Cabinet paid tribute to the Queen at a meeting on Friday morning.
It is understood that ministers shared memories of the monarch’s lifetime of service, including fond recollections of their own encounters with her.
There was a moment of silence at the conclusion of the meeting.