St Edward’s pupils sign book of condolence

Pupils from St Edward’s Catholic Academy in Swadlincote took the opportunity to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II by visiting the Council’s Civic Offices to sign the book of condolence earlier today (Thursday, 15 September).

The seven school children, all from the Academy’s Pupils’ Parliament had made the request to pay their respects and were accompanied by Mrs. Farmer and Mr. Cassidy. The teachers and pupils were joined at the signing by Councillor Paul Dunn, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council and Frank McArdle, the Council’s Chief Executive.

Mrs. Farmer said: "Many of our children were saddened by the passing of Her Majesty. The visit was a perfect opportunity for them to represent our school community in paying their respects. Signing the book of condolence is a moment in history that the children were very grateful for.

"We would like to offer a huge thank you to everyone who made this possible."

Councillor Dunn added: “It just shows what a connection Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had with people of all ages. Many of us, including the younger generation, are feeling a deep sense of loss currently and are looking at different ways to pay their respects - so it was great the pupils of St Edward’s Catholic Academy were able to visit earlier today and sign the book of condolence.”

The book of condolence opened on Friday 9 September and will continue to be available from 8.30am to 4.30pm until Saturday 17 September and from noon to 4.30pm on Sunday 18 September. There are also books of condolence open in Melbourne and Etwall.

People wishing to lay flowers are being asked to place them in the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Garden in Swadlincote.

15 September 2022