THE passing and funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be marked at three separate and solemn events in Reading on Sunday and Monday.

Residents are invited pay tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II at a Civic Memorial Service on September 18 at Reading Minster from 2pm.

The Service will be led by the Bishop of Reading and attended by the High Sheriff of Berkshire and other dignitaries.

The Council is respectfully asking residents to arrive in good time for the start of the Civic Memorial Service at The Minster Church of St Mary The Virgin, taking their seats by 1.45pm for the 2pm start.  

Later that same evening, a National Moment of Reflection has been called to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and to reflect on her life and legacy.

This takes place at 8pm across villages, towns and cities in the UK and across the world.

People have the option to mark the silence privately at home, with friends or family, out on doorsteps or the street with neighbours, or at any community events and vigils which may be arranged locally.

Community groups, clubs and other organisations in Reading are being encouraged to take part and may choose to make their own arrangements. 

Reading Borough Council will be marking the National Moment of Reflection at the front of the Civic Offices on Bridge Street, where the Union Jack flag remains at half-mast.

The Council Leader and Mayor will lead the silence. Reading residents are invited to attend and are asked to arrive before 8pm when the minute’s silence will begin.

On Monday, Reading Borough Council will screen the funeral in Forbury Gardens in order to allow residents to gather again to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Both London and Windsor are expected to be extremely busy on the day of the funeral and Reading residents have the opportunity to view the funeral in their hometown and avoiding the large crowds.

This will be a free ticketed event and residents can secure their place at https://whatsonreading.com/venues/forbury-gardens/whats-on/reading-screening-hm-queen-elizabeth-ii-funeral

Gates will open for ticket holders from 9.30am, ahead of the screening starting at 10.30am.

There will be some limited seating, but the Council recommends people bring their own seating if required. There will be a dedicated area for people with disabilities.