Tributes have poured in from across the farming community as the nation mourns the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away yesterday (8 September 2022).

After more than 70 years on the throne, Buckingham Palace announced yesterday the “peaceful” passing of Her Majesty, aged 96. The announcement came just hours after the palace revealed concerns for the Queen’s health.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”

A “beloved Mother”

The new monarch, King Charles III, also issued a statement upon the death of his “beloved” mother. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family.

“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother.  I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.

“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen was so widely held.”

Farming tributes

As a supporter of many rural organisations and charities over the years, farmers from across the UK were quick to express their sadness and pay tribute to the Queen.

NFU president Minette Batters was among them. In a statement she said: “Words cannot describe the deep sense of sadness that I and the rest of the farming community will feel at the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen.

“Her Majesty has been the embodiment of duty and public service, seeing the country through seven decades where we have seen huge change in our nation and in our fields. The Queen’s deep connection to the countryside has been valued enormously by farmers and has left a remarkable legacy that will continue for generations.

“On behalf of farmers in England and Wales, I would like to send my deepest condolences to the King, Queen Consort and the Royal Family at this truly sad time for our country.”

“Deep sadness”

The CLA also shared its “deep sadness”. Mark Tufnell, President of the CLA, said: “It is with profound grief that we note the passing of Her Majesty The Queen, but it is also with sincere gratitude that we remember her tireless service to our nation and its rural community.

“In an ever-changing world, the Queen was a constant. Her devotion and sense of duty inspired us all. On behalf of everyone at the Country Land and Business Association, I send my very deepest condolences to all members of the Royal Family, and pray that they will find comfort in the outpouring of love being shown to them from around the world.”