IT HAS been a momentous week in British history.

It will be one taught in history classes of the future and remembered as the week both the leadership of the country and the crown changed hands.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II has prompted an outpouring of mourning across the country.

Certainly the beloved monarch was held in high esteem across households and seemed to successfully bridge across many levels of society.

Her legacy will be one of conserving many of the institutions which her ancestors had helped create and respect for the crown which she is hailed to have led the modernisation during her long rule.

The royal soap opera will continue under King Charles III but who can say what the future holds for this ancient institution as the 21st century progresses.

Certainly the new monarch will have his work cut out to carve himself a place in the British consciousness as his late mother who had even managed to warm many a republican’s heart over the past 70 years.

For many Queen Elizabeth served as not only their Queen but also a de-facto grandmother or beloved relative and provided some sense of calm and order in a world which has changed so much since she rose to power in the 1950s.

So while some of us may not respect the institution of royalty it is worth remembering Queen Elizabeth provided comfort for many and her loss will be felt by these people now.

Border Counties Advertizer: These two shop at the same store. Picture by Brian Roberts.

These two shop at the same store. Picture by Brian Roberts.

Border Counties Advertizer: As happy as a pig in mud. Picture by Jan Rescorla.

As happy as a pig in mud. Picture by Jan Rescorla.

Border Counties Advertizer: A roadside sculpture. Picture by Jimmy Sheridan.

A roadside sculpture. Picture by Jimmy Sheridan.

Border Counties Advertizer: St Alkmund's Church in Whitchurch. Picture by Laura Butler.

St Alkmund's Church in Whitchurch. Picture by Laura Butler.

Border Counties Advertizer: A new friend. Picture by Yvonne Sheridan.

A new friend. Picture by Yvonne Sheridan.

Border Counties Advertizer: A rabbit enjoys some lunch. Picture by Steve Beech.

A rabbit enjoys some lunch. Picture by Steve Beech.

Border Counties Advertizer: A yellowhammer. Picture by Paul Meakin.

A yellowhammer. Picture by Paul Meakin.