Civic service of commemoration at St Mary's Church

A civic service of commemoration and thanksgiving held at the Grade II-listed St Mary's Church was attended by mourners from across the city.

People entering the church walked past a picture of the Queen that was surrounded by a black border.

Some of the 250 people who attended the service at St Mary's Church, Southampton. (Image: Chris Yandell, Newsquest)

Reflecting on everything that had happened since Britain's longest-serving monarch died at Balmoral on September 8 the Bishop of Southampton, the Right Rev Debbie Sellin, told the congregation: "The past 12 days have brought so many images, so many memories.

"It's really important that we are here together from all parts of the city - a city where we can come together in times of importance."

Praising the Queen's compassionate nature she added: "She may have lived away from people but she knew what was going on in people's lives. And she cared.

"The way she lived her life was an example to us all."

The Bishop of Southampton, the Right Rev Debbie Sellin, and the Deputy Lieutenant of Hampshire, Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre.Chris Yandell, Newsquest (Image: Chris Yandell, Newsquest)

Some of the Queen's most famous quotes were read out during the service, including a statement she made during a broadcast to mark her 21st birthday in 1947.

She said: "I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service."

The reading was given by the Deputy Lieutenant of Hampshire, Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre, a former chairman of the New Forest National Park Authority.

The 40-minute service was attended by about 250 people.

Some of the 250 people who attended the service at St Mary's Church, Southampton.ndell, Newsquest (Image: Chris Yandell, Newsquest)

Speaking afterwards the Lord Mayor of Southampton, Cllr Jacqui Rayment, said: "I have always been a supporter of the monarchy but it's since I became mayor that I've really appreciated what the Queen has done.

"I was showing a group of visitors around the mayor's parlour when I heard she had died. I excused myself and had a quiet moment. I felt sadness for the nation."

Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test, added: "I thought it was a splendid service that really did justice to the life of Her Majesty.

"She represented how the nation has moved to its present state from the difficult circumstances we faced after the Second World War. She carried out her service to the nation with extraordinary humility and dedication."

The Sheriff of Southampton, Cllr Valerie Laurent.Chris Yandell, Newsquest (Image: Chris Yandell, Newsquest)

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