A BOOK of condolences has been opened up at Holyrood for MSPs to leave tributes to the Queen.

The book was signed by Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone on Friday and is now open for MSPs, their staff, and Parliament staff to leave messages.

After the funeral of the Queen – a date for which is to be announced but expected to be on Monday September 19 - the book will be sent along with a personal letter to the King from the Presiding Officer. 

Johnstone said: “Her Majesty The Queen’s love of Scotland has always been clear, as has been her support for the Scottish Parliament. 

“I know the pages of this book will reflect many personal tributes that Members of this Parliament will want to pay.  

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“I personally wanted to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen for her loyal service to her country and for her commitment to the Scottish Parliament which never wavered, even towards the end of her life.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has already led political tributes to the monarch, as she described her death as a “profoundly sad moment for the UK, the Commonwealth and the world.”

She said: “Her life was one of extraordinary dedication and service. On behalf of the people of Scotland, I convey my deepest condolences to The King and the Royal Family."

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The Scottish Government confirmed that Sturgeon had sent a message of condolence to the newly appointed King Charles and the royal family on behalf of the people of Scotland. 

She added: “Scotland was special to her and she was special to Scotland. Throughout her life, she had a particular fondness for Aberdeenshire and her home there at Balmoral, where she spent her final days.”

Members of the public can contribute to an online book of condolences here.