Queen Elizabeth II dies at age 96

The longest-serving monarch in British history, Queen Elizabeth II, has died at the age of 96 on Thursday

Buckingham Palace confirmed the news in a short statement.

"The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow." Buckingham Palace said in a statement at 6:30 pm (1730 GMT).

The eldest of her four children, Charles, Prince of Wales, who at 73 is the oldest heir apparent in British history, becomes king

Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor death came after the palace announced on Thursday that doctors were "concerned" for her health and recommended she stayed under medical supervision.

All her children -- Charles, Princess Anne, 72, Prince Andrew, 62, and Prince Edward, 58, flocked to her Scottish Highland retreat, Balmoral.

They were joined by Charles's sons, Prince William, and his estranged brother Prince Harry. Two days earlier the queen appointed Liz Truss as the 15th prime minister of her reign and was seen smiling in photographs but looking frail and using a walking stick.

Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne when she was just 25-years-old in 1952, meaning she reigned for 70-years.

PICTURE: Twitter - @TheRoyalFamily

Many leaders across the world expressed their condolences, including President Cyril Ramaphosa.

"Her Majesty was an extraordinary and world-renowned public figure who lived a remarkable life. Her life and legacy will be fondly remembered by many around the world. The Queen's commitment and dedication during her 70 years on the throne remains a noble and virtuous example".

The president said he met the queen at the last Commonwealth meeting in London in 2018, adding that they had looked at letters she was sent by former South African president Nelson Mandela, "reminiscing about the great stateman" whom she "respected enormously".

 

Done By: Mitchum George