Queen Elizabeth II's death: Mourners gather at Sandringham to pay respects to the Queen

There was a sombre mood on the Royal Sandringham Estate last night, as mourners gathered to pay their respects after the news of Queen Elizabeth II's death.

A steady flow of people descended on the site of the Queen's West Norfolk home, with many leaving floral tributes, candles, cards and poems late into the evening.

Violet Chilton, who had travelled with her family from Wisbech, said: "We made a special trip to pay tribute to a compassionate and inspirational woman."

She had written a card, along with flowers, which read: "Our Queen.

"You ruled with love and pride, gave hope and inspiration when hard and difficult times came to us all.

"It's a sad day for our nation and our people. We have lost out Queen, RIP, thank you."

Karen Waving, who was on holiday from Lincolnshire and staying at Sandringham campsite, said: "It's comforting to be here.

"I was a little shocked to see her looking so frail when she met with Liz Truss.

"I wanted to pay tribute to a marvellous woman."

Mother and daughter Susan Hudson and Rachel Rossiter made the journey from Downham when they heard the news.

Rachel said: "I personally think she's the only Queen I might see - she been there for every big moment."

"You trusted her, she was a stable thing in the world and it's very sad after 70 years of reign," Susan added.

Other visitors paid tribute to the Queen's faith, dedication and service to the country.

One note read: "God bless our beloved Queen Elizabeth II.

"Our entire family wish to thank our beloved Queen for giving her entire life to the duties she was born into.

"Ma'am you are/were amazing and all of us and I guess the entire world will miss you greatly.

"With deep gratitude from the entire Tyrell family."

A card written from the Sheppard family left with flowers said: "Her Majesty.

"Thank you for dedicating your life so we can have ours.

"Rest in eternal peace."

Sympathy cards were left as the wall of bunches of flowers was steadily built from a couple to more than 50.

One simply said: "So sorry, rest in peace your Majesty x."

Other messages reflected the monarch's love of animals, as one note said: "The Queen.

"God be with you, there are horses in heaven too. We will miss you."

As the light faded and the shadows fell, mourners continued to gather peacefully in contemplation late into the night.

• See today's Lynn News for a 16-page commemorative supplement full of pictures and memories of the Queen