'An exceptional lady'

A symbol of Britain's wartime spirit

Members of the older generation have expressed their sadness at the death of the Queen Mother.

Prayers were said at Easter Sunday services across England as churches and cathedrals opened condolence books in memory of an "exceptional lady".

Gladys Wilkinson, 82, told BBC News Online that her passing was especially poignant for the older generation.

She said: "We all thought the world of her and I think it's a tragedy. Obviously we knew she was old, but you still want people to live.

She inspired devotion among the public

"She was so pleasant, she always had a word for ordinary people and loved her husband and her family dearly.

"In the old days the family was very important and I think people looked up to her.

"She was a very strong lady and I think a lot of the older generation will be feeling very sad."

Prayers for the Queen Mother were led by the Dean of Durham, The Very Reverend Doctor John Arnold, during the Easter Celebration service at Durham Cathedral.

'End of an era'

Rev Arnold spoke of the Queen Mother's "lifelong commitment to the nation" and said she would be remembered for her "justice, truth and service".

He was the first to sign a special condolence book opened at the Cathedral for people to pay their respects.

It is very, very sad news

Lillian Dobson, Durham

A black and white photograph of the Queen Mother was placed next to the book along with a prayer and spray of white lilies.

Denzil Somerfield, 79, from Durham, said the Queen Mother's passing was simply the "end of an era".

His thoughts were echoed by John and Lillian Dobson, who said the Queen Mother had been a constant source of "stability".

Mrs Dobson, 69, told BBC News Online: "It is very, very sad news. I thought she was lovely.

An emotional moment on her 100th birthday

"She provided stability to the country throughout the years, especially during the War.

"It was a different time back then, life was very different and there was a lot of respect for the Monarchy. People still had that respect for the Queen Mother today."

Mr Dobson said: "She was something else. She was an exceptional lady."

Thomas Spedding, 76, told BBC News Online he had gone to church to pay his respects to the Queen Mother.

"She was an old lady, but a very lovely lady and I'm feeling very said.

"It seems especially poignant that she died at Easter time and a thought must be spared for the Queen who is having a very difficult Golden Jubilee year.

"To lose your sister and mother within weeks of each other is tragic."