WELLS MP James Heappey paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II last night. 

The Queen died “peacefully” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on the afternoon of Thursday, September 8.

Charles III acceded to the throne upon the Queen's death but will not be formally proclaimed King until an Accession Council is held at St James’s Palace on Saturday.

Armed Forces Minister James Heappey joined politicians and public figures around the world last night in paying tribute to the Queen.

Mr Heappey reached the rank of Major in the Army before entering politics and said the Queen understood the sacrifice made by members of the armed forces.

In a written statement, he said: “‘For Queen and Country’ is no catchphrase to our Armed Forces and veterans. 

“It is meant deeply and it is personal - a mortal commitment to the sovereign herself as well as the nation. 

“The Queen knew the sacrifice that those in uniform were willing to make in her name. 

“The Queen responded with a lifetime of service of her own and unstinting support to the men and women in her Armed Forces. 

“Soldiers, sailors, aviators, and veterans everywhere will be deeply saddened by her death. 

“God save the King.”

King Charles III will travel to London today after spending the night at Balmoral. 

He is due to meet Prime Minister Liz Truss before he makes his first public speech as monarch at 6pm in a televised address to the nation.

Read more: The Queen dies aged 96: Somerset pays tribute to Her Majesty