This week the nation said goodbye to Queen Elizabeth II after a remarkable 70-plus years on the throne.

It was an opportunity to say thank you for her lifetime of dedicated public duty both in the UK and across the Commonwealth.

Members of the public and political leaders turned out in force for the Lying in State and Monday’s funeral, showing the high regard and affection in which she was held.  

At the grand age of 96, her passing was not unexpected but still came as a shock.

It’s no secret she had been suffering from deteriorating health. And there’s no doubt the loss of her husband and companion the Duke of Edinburgh – whom she described as her ‘rock’ – came as a devastating blow.

But for many of us, the Queen had been a constant and reassuring presence throughout our lives.

Even as a young lad I remember excitedly receiving a commemorative mug and coin to mark her Silver Jubilee in 1977, as well as enjoying the street parties.

In the political sphere, it’s to Her Majesty’s credit that she was able to maintain neutrality during a reign in which she saw 15 Prime Ministers of all colours come and go, beginning with Winston Churchill. 

One of her last actions was to welcome new Prime Minister Liz Truss to the role.

Over the summer, the late Queen was very much in the minds of my constituents despite not being physically present.

Northwich Guardian: One the final portraits of Her Majesty The Queen (PA)One the final portraits of Her Majesty The Queen (PA) (Image: PA)

The Queen's Baton Relay was cheered through the streets of Northwich as it neared the end of a world tour just ahead of the opening of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The baton was even carried by boat and down a 50ft descent on the historic Anderton boatlift. 

The rapid transition of power from the Queen Elizabeth II to her son King Charles III is bound to feel unsettling.

And spare a thought for the new king, a man in his 70s, who at the same time as dealing with his own grief has been on a UK-wide tour meeting countless people and delivering speeches.

I believe his all-embracing approach has gone down well with the public.

The sovereign has explained that he will perform royal duties in his own unique way while drawing on the inspiration and example of his extraordinary late mother.

Rest in peace, Ma’am.