The First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon has called Queen Elizabeth II an “extraordinary” woman as the latter’s coffin left Balmoral and started its journey to Edinburgh, where tributes will be made.
Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin left Balmoral at about 10am and is to pass places including Aberdeen and Dundee before being laid at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
In a tweet, Nicola Sturgeon said: “A sad and poignant moment as Her Majesty, The Queen leaves her beloved Balmoral for the final time.
“Today, as she makes her journey to Edinburgh, Scotland will pay tribute to an extraordinary woman.”
As the coffin enters Edinburgh later on Sunday, Ms Sturgeon and other party leaders in Scotland are expected to observe as it goes past the Scottish Parliament.
Speaking following Queen Elizabeth II’s death on Thursday, Ms Sturgeon said: “The death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth is a profoundly sad moment for the UK, the Commonwealth and the world.
“Her life was one of extraordinary dedication and service. On behalf of the people of Scotland, I convey my deepest condolences to The King and the Royal Family.”
While on Saturday she said: “Her Majesty’s death at Balmoral Castle means Scotland has lost one of its most dedicated and beloved servants.
“The grief we have seen across the world has been profound and deeply touching. It will be especially poignant to see Her Majesty’s coffin begin its journey from her Aberdeenshire home to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
“This is a chance for people to gather together publicly and begin to mark our country’s shared loss.”
The First Minister added: “We anticipate many, many people will be keen to pay their respects and we ask them to observe public safety messaging to ensure the safety of all.”
Nicola Sturgeon
Jane Barlow
Queen Elizabeth II's coffin left Balmoral on Sunday morning
Andrew Milligan