Statement from Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England

Statement from Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England:

I know I speak on behalf of the whole NHS when I say how incredibly saddened we are by the news Her Majesty The Queen has passed away.

The Queen dedicated her life to public service and it was our proudest moment when she awarded NHS staff the George Cross earlier this year, for their compassion and courage over the last 74 years but particularly during the pandemic.

My heartfelt condolences are with the Royal Family at this time.