A LOCAL MP has paid a tribute following the death of Queen Elizabeth II this afternoon.

Richard Foord, Member of Parliament for Tiverton and Honiton, said: “For over 70 years Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a figure of unity and stability for everyone across the UK.

Richard Foord the new Lib Dem MP for Tiverton and Honiton.
Richard Foord the new Lib Dem MP for Tiverton and Honiton. (Lib Dem party)

“She embodied the very best of Britain, selflessly devoting herself to serving the people of our proud country without respite or complaint until the very end.

“As Head of the Commonwealth, she championed the values of freedom and compassion, helping to bring nations together throughout her reign.

“She was also Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces, and I know just how much she was respected by those who have served and are serving in her name.

“She was frankly an incredible figure who shall forever be remembered for the sense of duty she personified.

“May she rest in peace.”