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Tributes have poured in for Queen Elizabeth II, who died yesterday aged 96.

Senedd Members, Members of Parliament and councillors have all paid their respects, as have other local representatives, including Gwent’s Police and Crime Commissioner and the High Sheriff of Gwent.

Caerphilly County Borough Council leader Sean Morgan has expressed his “deepest sympathy” to the Royal Family on behalf of both the council and residents.

Paying tribute, Cllr Morgan said: “This sad news is a huge loss for our nation. Her Majesty’s dedicated and tireless service to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over the past 70 years has been a shining example to the world.

“The national pride and adoration that was on display during the recent Platinum Jubilee celebrations clearly demonstrated what the Queen means to all of us.”

He confirmed flags will be flown at half-mast at the council offices and a book of condolences will be made available.

Caerphilly County Borough Mayor Liz Aldworth joined the tributes and said: “The Queen has ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe.

Her extraordinary reign has seen her travel more widely than any other monarch, undertaking many historic overseas visits. Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she has been an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.

The Queen believed strongly that public and voluntary services were one of the most important elements of her work and served as Royal Patron or President for over 600 charities, military associations, professional bodies and public service organisations.

We have already seen an outpouring of condolence messages for our Queen who was a Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, a woman that gave so much during her reign.”

Caerphilly’s Labour Senedd Member Hefin David described the Queen as “ever-present throughout our lives” and said her “sense of duty has endured throughout her long life of service”.

He added: “One thing we can share is a common feeling of compassion, for her, for her family and for all in our wonderful community.”

Caerphilly’s Labour MP, Wayne David, expressed “enormous sadness” and said: “For 70 years, Queen Elizabeth was our Head of State, providing stability and guidance, and personifying the very best in public service. We will miss her greatly.”

Plaid Cymru Senedd Member Delyth Jewell, who represents the South Wales East region, said: “Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace.”

Meanwhile, Islwyn’s Labour Senedd Member described the Queen as “the perfect role model of public service”, while Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney MS Dawn Bowden, also Labour, offered her “sincere condolences” to the Queen’s family.

Islwyn’s Labour MP, Chris Evans, said the Queen was “more than a monarch, she was Great Britain – an era comes to a close”.

He continued: “Thank you Ma’am, for everything. RIP.”

Conservative MS Natasha Asghar, who also represents the South Wales East region, also paid tribute. She said: “Queen Elizabeth II was our dedicated Head of State. To the Royal Family, she was the matriarch of the family and dedicated the majority of her life to public service.

“Thoughts and prayers will be the Royal family as they and the nation mourn the loss of our Queen. May she rest in peace.”

Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert confirmed flags across Gwent Police’s estate will be flown as half mast and said: “We knew her, first and foremost, as a servant of the people. But she was also a mother, grandmother and great-grand mother and a friend.

“Today my thoughts are with the Her Majesty’s family and loved ones at this very sad time.”

Gwent Police’s Chief Constable, Pam Kelly QPM, said: “Today is a very sad day. Her Majesty dedicated 70 years of service to our nation, and she did so with commitment and pride.”

The High Sheriff of Gwent, Malgwyn Davies OBE, said: “Along with countless people across the world, I was initially shocked to hear the breaking news about Her Majesty and then saddened when her passing was announced.

“Queen Elizabeth II has reigned for practically the whole of my life and is someone we have always admired and respected. She is a role model for all those involved in public service.

“I wish to express my sincere condolences to King Charles III and the whole of the Royal Family.”