Tributes have poured in from local leaders and MPs in Barnet following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, at the age of 96.

The United Kingdom’s head of state, who was the country’s longest-ever reigning monarch following 70 years on the throne, died peacefully on Thursday afternoon at Balmoral in Scotland.

The Union flag is flying at half-mast outside Hendon Town Hall.

Mayor of Barnet Alison Moore said: “It is with the deepest sadness that we learnt of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. We share in the profound grief felt across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the entire world.

“Her extraordinary 70-year reign, the longest of any monarch in the world, was characterised by her unwavering commitment to a life of service and therefore Her Majesty has fully deserved a very special and unique place in all our lives.

“I will write to Buckingham Palace to convey sincere condolences to the royal family on behalf of all the residents of Barnet.”

A book of condolence will open at Hendon Town Hall so that people can pay their respects. This will be open from Monday, 12th September. It will be available to sign Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm, until the day after the funeral.

Barnet residents can lay flowers and other appropriate memorials on the grassed area in front of Hendon Town Hall.

Local MPs in Barnet have also paid tribute to the Queen.

Hendon MP Matthew Offord said: “I am greatly saddened at the death of Her Majesty The Queen. For over 70 years she has guided our country with a level of service that has been exemplary. This is a terrible loss and a day I have dreaded. Our thoughts must now be with her family at this very sad time for them all.”

Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer said: “We mourn the loss of Her Majesty the Queen. She has been a constant in many of our lives. For many, like myself, she is the only monarch we have ever known.

“She has served us faithfully throughout her long reign, in a life dedicated to public service, for 70 years. May she rest in peace. My thoughts are with her family – and everyone whose life she has touched. God Save The King.”

The Queen had visited Barnet several times during her reign. Her most recent dedicated visit was in 2005, when she visited the emergency call centre at Hendon Police Peel Centre after the Asian tsunami disaster.