Despite knowing that an event must inevitably occur, the shock, when it comes, is no less overwhelming.
I'm sure that's how very many of us feel this morning.
For the vast majority of us Queen Elizabeth II was the constant in our lives. A source of inspiration, an example to us all through her commitment to service. Providing comfort in times of strife. Signifying unity in times of division. Offering hope when we might otherwise have despaired.
Queen Elizabeth truly felt for our sadness and shared in our gladness.
As the Prime Minister said yesterday, the Queen was the rock upon which modern Britain was built.
Here in Test Valley we feel Her Majesty's loss all the more keenly. Romsey was always close to her heart. The place where she spent her honeymoon and where she visited often.
And while we remember so many long years of service and commitment we should also turn our eyes to the future. My thoughts and prayers are with the King as he assumes the heavy burden his mother bore for so long.
God Save the King.