Members will no doubt be aware that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has passed away.
This is a deeply sad day, for the Royal Family, for the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, and for the many people around the world whose lives Her Majesty touched with her kindness and devotion to duty.
As our patron, Her Majesty held a special place for RICS and Chartered Surveyors everywhere. On many occasions throughout her reign, Her Majesty showed a keen interest in the work of professionals in the built and natural environment, most notably shown when we were honoured to welcome her to our London headquarters for our 150-year celebration in 2018.
I was also struck recently by the warmth and sincerity of feeling expressed by many professionals and members of the public when I attended events to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee, during my visit to the UK earlier this year.
Here I witnessed a special bond, one which I know will be cherished in the hearts of many as Her Majesty will be fondly remembered by all.
Her Majesty embodied the tradition of service and had a lively fascination in the workings of the human and natural world that our profession always strives to emulate.
We wish her peace, and to her family, comfort at this difficult time.
I offer my condolences on behalf of the entire RICS community to His Majesty King Charles as we join him in mourning.
God save the King.
