Hospitality professionals have paid tributes following the death of the UK’s longest-serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II.
The news of the Queen’s death was announced on Thursday afternoon after concerns surrounding her health were made public earlier in the day.
To mark the news, the Union flag on top of Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast at 18:30 with an official notice announcing the death posted outside the palace.
Following her passing, her eldest son Charles, formerly the Prince of Wales, will lead the country in mourning as the new King and head of state.
In a post on Instagram, the Michelin starred Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, said: “We are greatly saddened to hear the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away today at Balmoral, surrounded by her family. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time as we join the nation in mourning.”
Chef and restaurant owner Paul Ainsworth said: "When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead, they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future.”
Reacting to the news, Monica Galetti, Owner of Mere Restaurant and Judge of Masterchef: The Professionals, said: "Rest in Love your Majesty…we will miss you dearly.”
The three Michelin star restaurant, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, announced: “We @helenedarrozeattheconnaught are all overwhelmed by the passing of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II and would like to thank her for everything she did for the nation and the world. All are thoughts and prayers go to this remarkable monarch and to her family.”
Asma Khan, Founder of the Darjeeling Express restaurant, tweeted: “Goodbye and thank you.”
Scottish celebrity chef, Nick Nairn, said on Twitter: "Didn’t expect to feel so sad at the passing of HRH the Queen. Was lucky enough to have met her and cooked for her. Huge loss."
Claire Smyth, Owner of the three Michelin star Core, said on Instagram: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the loss of Her Majesty The Queen. Thank you for all of your incredible years of service and inspirational leadership. Rest in Peace HRH Elizabeth II 1926-2022."
Britain’s Longest Serving Monarch
Recognised as the UK's longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at Balmoral Castle on Thursday afternoon, at the age of 96.
Succeeding her is King Charles III, who became the new monarch immediately, and is expected to address the nation following the death of his mother.
Following the announcement of her death, Charles said his mother's death was a moment of "greatest sadness for me and all members of my family."
The Queen steered the monarchy through turbulent times, as Britain’s Empire ended and its place in the world fundamentally changed.
In her tenure as head of the UK and 14 other countries, the Queen oversaw the appointment of 15 British Prime Ministers, 14 US Presidents and nine Popes.
