God Save The King was sung for the first time in more than 70 years at St Mary’s Church, Bramshott, on September 11 after a moving service reflecting on the extraordinary reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

A very special Holy Communion service was led by the vicar Rev Valentine Inglis-Jones, and a sermon described as “very moving” by those present was preached by Alan Geddes.

The congregation then sang the national anthem which again proved very emotional.

As is the tradition on sombre occasions, the church bells were muffled for a tolling of the bells – but these muffles were later removed for a special ringing in the afternoon heralding the accession of King Charles III to the throne.

A book of condolence was in the Millennium Hall until September 16 and flowers were placed by the flagpole outside the Liphook Millennium Centre until September 19. There was another book of condolence at St Mary’s.

A proclamation announcing the new King was read at East Hampshire District Council’s headquarters in Petersfield, as well as in Liss and Whitehill & Bordon, on Sunday.

In a statement, Bramshott & Liphook Parish Council chairman Cllr Jeanette Kirby said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We give thanks for her steadfast life of devotion and duty to our country.

“On behalf of Bramshott & Liphook Parish Council and the people of our parish, we send our heartfelt condolences to the entire royal family.”

Out of respect, all meetings of the parish council scheduled to be held during the period of national mourning have been cancelled.

The district councillor for Bramshott & Liphook, Nick Sear, added: “We are so thankful for her incredible life and the wonderful blessing she has been to our nation during her 70-year reign.”