FOLLOWING the tragic loss of Her Majesty The Queen on Thursday, September 8, communities across Warrington are marking her heartbreaking passing.

Birchwood is just one of the areas of the town that is thanking Her Majesty for her 70 years of service and is commemorating her long life.

There are a number of ways that residents can join the community events that are taking place in memory of the late monarch.

As a mark of respect for Her Majesty, and in line with the Bank Holiday on Monday, September 19, all schools and medical practices will be closed - which includes Birchwood Medical Centre, Birchwood Dental Practice, and Birchwood High School.

Should any residents wish to lay floral tributes in Birchwood, they are being encouraged to do so in the memorial garden at Birchwood Shopping Centre - without cellophane, it's being requested.

There will also be a book of condolence at the shopping centre, near Costa; it will be available for people to sign from Tuesday, September 13, and will be available to be signed from 10am until 4pm every day.

Birchwood Town Council has also opened a book of condolence, which residents can sign at the town council's offices, which are at Parker's Farm, on Delenty Drive.

Thomas Risley Church will be holding a special memorial service for Her Majesty on Sunday evening, September 18, between 6:30pm and 7:30pm.

There will be a national one-minute silence at 8pm on Sunday evening to mark the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.