Over 500 people gathered at the Wimbledon Village War Memorial on Sunday night to mark the National Minute of Reflection for HRH Queen Elizabeth II. A piper played as the crowd gathered and the Vigil was opened by Village Ward Councillor, Max Austin, who organised the event alongside the Wimbledon & Putney Common Conservators.

Stephen Hammond, MP, read Floral Tribute, written by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage CBE, before Revd. Mandy Hodgson, Rector of St Mary’s Church, reflected on the Queen’s life and legacy, and led the observation of the National Minute of Silence.

The National Anthem was sung, led by St Mary’s Choir, who also performed God Be In My Head by Walford Davies.

The event concluded with a few words from Diane Neill Mills, Chair of Wimbledon and Putney Commons, who invited everyone present to sign the Commons’ Book of Condolence. The Mayor of Merton, Councillor Joan Henry, signed the book as the piper played Highland Cathedral.

The Book of Condolence will be available to sign in the Ranger’s Office until dusk today, Tuesday 20th September.