Hucknall mourns Queen Elizabeth II

The people of Hucknall and those connected with the town are mourning the passing of the Queen.

The library on South Street is providing a dedicated computer which residents can use to access the official online book of condolence. 

Several pubs and bars in the town including Damo's on Annesley Road and H2O on High Street announced this morning that they wouldn't be showing live sport while the country is in mourning as a mark of respect to the life of the Queen.

Damo's which is owned by Damien O'Connor posted on their Facebook Page: "Good morning Hucknall.

"Following the announcement yesterday evening of the passing of our dearly beloved Queen, please note that we will not be showing any televised sports nor holding any live entertainment as a mark of respect as the country now enters a period of reflection.

"We will also be limiting our social media postings during this time, the bar will remain open during the countries 10 days of mourning as a place for those to gather from the community, come together and not be alone during these difficult times.

"We celebrate and reflect on 70 years of service to our nation. Irrespective of if you are a royalist, or a fan of the monarchy, the Queen was a mother, great grandmother, part of a family and ultimately someone who dedicated her entire life to this country, and we ask that customers respect that when visiting.

"May she rest in peace, God save the King".

Shortly afterwards, the Premier League and English Football League announced that all of this weekend's football fixtures have been postponed as a mark of respect.

Hucknall's MP Mark Spencer took to Twitter to pay his personal tribute to the Queen.

He posted last night: "The saddest of all days for our country and our people. Rest in peace Queen Elizabeth II.

"Your service and dedication to our nation will never be forgotten.

"My thoughts are with the Royal family at this time."

Whilst Hucknall District and County Councillor, John Wilmott said: "In June, I had the pleasure of attending dozens of events in Hucknall to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Like the people of Hucknall – I am extremely saddened by this news. Our Queen made an unprecedented contribution to the life of our country. She will be sadly missed."

Speaking exclusively to Hucknall Nub News, Maureen Newton, Chairman of Hucknall Heritage Society, said: "In 1953 my parents bought a Bush T.V. with a 9 inch screen from Hucknall Co-op on Ogle Street which would enable us to watch the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth ll. It showed, of course, black and white images and I think at the time, it was only the second set on our road.

"Lots of streets in Hucknall had organised outdoor parties for the children but due to the weather conditions they had to look for indoor accommodation. Lots of children came into our home to watch the ceremony with this amazing young woman being crowned. All local school children were given gifts to mark the occasion.

"Over the years since then we have watched the Queen on newer T.V. sets and with later technology. She has reigned in fine style from the beginning despite occasional problems with her own family she has shown a caring attitude to people all over the world but especially those of the Commonwealth. May God bless Queen Elizabeth ll."

St. Mary Magdalene, the Parish Church on Hucknall marketplace is open today (Friday 8 September) and tomorrow (Saturday 9 September) from 10am- 12 noon and 2-4pm for people to say a prayer or pay a tribute. There will be a picture of the Queen on display and a candle burning as a mark of respect and to allow reflection.