Music : Elizabeth Remembered, composed by Debbie Wiseman OBE.

BBC One viewers were moved to tears following presenter Kirsty Young’s “outstanding” closing speech as coverage of the Queen’s state funeral came to an end. Britain’s longest-reigning monarch was laid to rest on Monday, September 19 with a funeral at Westminster Abbey and a committal service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.

Following the committal service, Kirsty wrapped up the proceedings with a powerful and moving monologue.

In a final tribute, the 53-year-old referenced the “might of the military parade”, the “splendour of Westminster Abbey” and the “hushed intimacy of St George’s Chapel in Windsor”.

Kirsty told viewers at home: “It’s often felt in recent days that a veil of sorrow has covered the nation, but the Queen’s funeral has surely exemplified her reign – she united us in one final act of togetherness, unifying the United Kingdom and the world beyond in respect, ceremony and significance.

“As a very young woman, she famously said, her whole life whether it be long or short would be devoted to our service. Well, never was a person truer to their word.”

Holding back tears, Kirsty continued: “And today we have come together, many of us with tears in our eyes, but all of us with an abiding warmth in our hearts for all that she gave.”

Kirsty then discussed the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the Paddington Bear speech that has become so poignant. The presenter added: “Just over three months ago the world, and a certain little bear, said ‘Thank you, for everything’ and The Queen looked as though she thoroughly enjoyed the occasion.

“We will, surely, be ever grateful to have had that final opportunity to celebrate with Her Majesty her remarkable and long reign. If, as she once said, ‘grief is the price we pay for love,’ then the weight of our collective sorrow is a testament to the depth of affection in which she is held.”

Finishing the closing speech, Kirsty said: “She made history, she was history. Queen Elizabeth II is gone. But she will surely never be forgotten.”

Viewers at home quickly flooded social media with praise for the tribute and Kirsty’s “outstanding” delivery of it. “What a closing speech by Kirsty Young, she did well to hold it together,” wrote one.

While another added: “Gosh – Kirsty Young – she gets it. Wonderful.” And a third commented: “Kirsty Young you have just brought a tear to my eye. Outstanding closing words.”
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