Our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family at this sad time, and the council will be writing to Buckingham Palace offering condolences.

Due to Coronavirus restrictions and the importance of staying safe, condolence books will not be available at civic buildings for people to sign in person, but an online book of condolence is now open here.

As per protocols the Union Flag has been lowered to half-mast at all council buildings, and will remain so until next Sunday, 18 April.

Oldham Parish Church will also toll their bells at 12 noon tomorrow, one for every year of the Duke of Edinburgh’s life.