CIVIC and faith leaders have spoken of the magnitude of the Queen’s state funeral with hundreds of thousands of BCP residents set to watch the day unfold.

Several special memorial services were held across Dorset on Sunday (September 18) prior to Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral.

Ahead of Monday, Poole mayor Cllr Tony Trent praised the decision to show the funeral in public spaces to mark the national grieving process.

Bournemouth Echo: Cllr Tony Trent signs a book of condolence after the death of Queen Elizabeth IICllr Tony Trent signs a book of condolence after the death of Queen Elizabeth II (Image: Newsquest)

He told the Echo: “Having screens up in Poole Park and other places across the region is a good move.

“It could be a strange atmosphere and I’m sure there will be some reflection on all that has happened. We will have to wait and see on the weather but I think it’s nice that people have the opportunity to watch it communally and privately.

“After Monday, I’m not sure what will happen but I suppose normality beckons.”

Bournemouth Echo: Large TV screens to show Queen's funeral in Bournemouth, Christchurch and PooleLarge TV screens to show Queen's funeral in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (Image: BCP Council)

Bournemouth mayor Cllr Bob Lawton, meanwhile, said: “I think the people of Bournemouth will rise to the occasion and will accept, admire and love our new King.

“It will of course be a quiet atmosphere around the town, but I think a reverential one. Most people, like me I imagine, will watch it on the TV all day long.

“I’ve grown up with nothing else but knowing one Queen and it is not often we bury a monarch. The people of Bournemouth will understand that and again be reverential to the funeral.”

Reverend Ian Terry, team rector of the Bournemouth Town Centre Parish, said: “We will remember this day as both a matter of national and international significance in giving thanks to the Queen.

Bournemouth Echo: St Peter's Church in BournemouthSt Peter's Church in Bournemouth

“The historical significance is both about instant continuity and reflection. The moment the Queen died, Charles became King and so we are marking that. However, the same time, as we have remembered during this Platinum Jubilee year, we will reflect on the Queen’s incredible record of 70 years of service above self.

“We are aware this is not just any change of monarch, we are saying goodbye to a monarch whose service we are unlikely to see again in our lifetime.

“We will say goodbye to the Queen with full and overflowing hearts.”