Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, showed their respect for the passing of Her Majesty The Queen at school and were also invited to be part of the proclamation of His Majesty King Charles III. 

The first proclamation in Suffolk was made at 1pm on Sunday 11 September from the balcony of Ipswich Town Hall and was read by the High Sheriff of Suffolk, Major Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton.

RHS was requested by the Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk to provide a Royal Navy contingent to the military presence, forming a Guard of Honour along with the Army and Royal Air Force.

The proclamation marks a new era, and RHS were honoured that some of their pupils were invited to be a part of it, considering the school's Royal and Naval heritage.

Last Friday, RHS' school community gathered at the front of the school to raise the flag and then lower it to half-mast to show their respect for the passing of Her Majesty, The Queen. The whole school then proceeded to the chapel for a short service, where the Queen's Banner has been placed on the school's ceremonial drums in front of the altar as a mark of respect. 

The chapel will continue to be open for personal prayer and quiet reflection during the 10-day period of national mourning. RHS has created two books of condolences with one placed at reception and the other in the chapel to ensure that all pupils and members of staff have an opportunity to share their thoughts and memories. 

Simon Lockyer, headmaster at the Royal Hospital School, said: "The announcement of Her Majesty The Queen's passing has been met with profound sadness around the globe and transcended generations.

"At the Royal Hospital School, we have been incredibly grateful for the personal interest Her Majesty has shown in our school. We are very proud of our association with the Royal Family over many years, making this news all the more keenly felt.

"Her inspirational leadership and immense personal integrity have been examples to successive generations - a true stateswoman who has steered her family, the nation, the Commonwealth and all its people through periods of historic change, guided by her Christian faith. The example she has set of dedication and service has been an enduring feature of her reign.

"Our community of former and current pupils, parents, governors and staff extend our thoughts and prayers to her family and all those who share in the loss and profound sadness at the passing of our treasured and much-loved Monarch."

The part played by RHS both as part of the Colour Guard and representing the school within the Cornhill, was described as exemplary by Ganges councillor Derek Davis, who was on the town hall steps representing Babergh as the vice-chairman at the ceremony.