The death of Queen Elizabeth II: How the day unfolded

Just two days earlier, The Queen had met her 15th - and final - prime minister when she welcomed Liz Truss to Balmoral.

She had remained at her Scottish residence and not returned to London as is customary - for health reasons, it was announced - although in the picture that was released on the day she appeared smiling, standing and shaking Ms Truss by the hand.

There had been reports about the Queen's health for several months. She had missed the opening of the Commonwealth Games in July; missed the Braemar Gathering in early September.

The BBC's royal correspondent indicated there had been no 'sharp decline' in the sovereign's health.

But unease remained, and that was compounded on Thursday, September 8, when at 12.34pm Buckingham Palace released a statement.

Queen Elizabeth meets her final prime minister, Liz Truss, at Balmoral. (Image: PA)

It said: “Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision.

"The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral.”

Rumour and speculation went into overdrive. Such pronouncements have been very rare, during her 70 year reign.

Members of the Royal Family were reported to be on their way to Balmoral. Prince Charles, Prince William, other senior royals swept up the country. Prince Harry travelled up, by himself, reportedly.

Across the world, leaders of nations and religions sent their best wishes.

Then, at 6.30pm, just as, perhaps, rumours were beginning to spread, the Palace released a short statement.

"The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon," it said.

"The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."

Queen Elizabeth, who has died aged 96, in 1956. (Image: PA)

It's likely that the news had taken a little time to filter out. There are protocols to be followed - Operation London Bridge. But when the news finally broke - despite the months of rumours and speculation, and despite her fine old age of 96 - it still felt like a shock.

The new prime minister made a statement. The new King (Charles III) made a statement.

And the nation must now become accustomed to a new reality - one without its Queen.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II is an enormous moment, and not just because she is a well-loved and respected monarch - who even many republicans admire. She has been on the throne for 70 years. People have lived and died in her reign.

The shockwaves of September 8 will reverberate for a long time to come.