As the late Queen stares across the flickering from the lights of two dozen candles towards the nave, in a side chapel a well-wisher writes a heart-felt tribute in a leather-bound book of condolence.

A tourist takes a photograph of the smiling monarch, pictured wearing a silver-and-amber crown and a blue sash over a silk gown.

The photograph is part of mourning arrangements put in place by vergers and chaplains at St Mary the Virgin, the university church in the High Street.

The church will be open daily from 9.30am until 6pm – or from noon on Sundays, to fit around services.

Rev Dr William Lamb, the vicar, said: “As we mourn her passing, we give thanks for her grace, humanity and service, and above all the duty which she rendered unflinchingly to her country and the Commonwealth.”

Following a planned vigil this evening at 5pm, a service of thanksgiving and remembrance will take place at 5.30pm on Thursday, September 15. The Bishop of Oxford is expected to preach at the service.   

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This story was written by Tom Seaward. He joined the team in 2021 as Oxfordshire's court and crime reporter.  

To get in touch with him email: Tom.Seaward@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @t_seaward