Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and Merseyside Fire & Rescue Authority are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We offer our condolences to the Royal Family and the nation.

Paying tribute, Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan said: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. As our longest serving monarch, she touched the lives of millions upon millions of people. Not only was she a much-loved Queen, she was a devoted mother, wife and grandmother, while serving her country – which she loved - tirelessly, with the utmost pride and dignity. I would like to pass on my sincere condolences and those of Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service to the Royal Household at this very sad time. The Queen visited many fire services during her reign and many will have wonderful stories to tell about her time with them.

"This news will have a huge impact on the entire world.

"It is only right that we both celebrate and mourn this amazing woman who reigned for 70 years at the helm of her family and at the helm of our country. She was an amazing ambassador.

"With respect and deepest condolences. God Save the Queen."

Chair of the Fire & Rescue Authority, Cllr Les Byrom, said: "We would offer our profound and sad condolences and be associated with all the comments the Chief Fire Officer has made.

"The Queen opened Speke & Garston fire station and has been involved in the life of the fire service locally and nationally, she will be sadly missed.

"The Authority members will support whatever public duties, services or events that the fire service is engaged with, to mark and celebrate the life and times of this amazing person.

"As we say for the final times, God Save the Queen, whose almighty hands she is already in, we move on with allegiance to say, God Save the King."