BBC broadcaster and presenter Huw Edwards has been praised for his remarkable shift as he informed the people of Britain that Queen Elizabeth II had died. Dressed in a black tie the Welsh journalist announced on BBC News that a statement by Buckingham Palace revealed that the Queen had died at Balmoral on Thursday afternoon.
After an image of the flag at Buckingham Palace was shown at half mast he told viewers: "A few moments ago Buckingham Palace announced the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II." He then went on to reflect on the Queen's life and reign. He said: "A lifetime of service to people in the United Kingdom, throughout the Commonwealth, and in many parts of the world.
"An example of leadership which didn’t stray into the realm of politics and for lots of people the ideal symbol of what a constitutional monarchy should be like. Well now the world has been told and the official notice has been posted."
Read more: 96-gun salute will take place at Cardiff Castle today at 1pm
Over the years Edwards has delivered news at historic moments in modern times such as the news of Barack Obama's first presidential election victory in the US, the results of the EU referendum, and the wedding of Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to name a few. But according to Tony Blair's former communications chief Alistair Campbell Huw Edwards had been preparing to announce the news of the Queen's death for "some time".
Mr Campbell, now an author and podcaster,. said Edwards had done "superbly". On Twitter he posted: "Huw Edwards told me a few months ago he had been preparing, practising, and even rehearsing in front of his bathroom mirror for this moment for some time.
"He said too that the Queen's death would be the biggest challenge to BBC News in its history. He did superbly". He added: "I am out of the country and have not seen much of the BBC coverage but @schooltruth (Fiona Millar, his partner) tells me he has been 'absolutely brilliant'. Which would surprise nobody".
Mr Campbell wasn't the only one to praise the journalist for the way in which he delivered the news. His former co-worker, Jon Sopel, also applauded the journalist.
He said: "I have known Huw Edwards for 30+ years from when we were young, ambitious political correspondents. At times it was like the Hunger Games as we all fought (each other) to get on air. But tonight his tone on coverage of Queen Elizabeth death has been magnificent. Kudos Huw".
Leave your tributes to the Queen here:
Comedian David Baddiel said: "It’s really an amazing performance by Huw Edwards. A masterclass in whatever the opposite might be of comedy improvisation, in extended sombreness". Elliot Gonzalez said: "What a week for Huw Edwards. His relentless professionalism through Liz Truss’ appointment and now the Queen’s death really is to be admired. If anyone has the right to say they’re tired it’s him. Hope he has a day off soon."
A Twitter user named NP also praised the journalist, writing: "His broadcasting was perfect. His accent so soothing. Professional and human-hearted... Thank you it reached us". Another Twitter user named Anghay said that Huw was a "professional" and added: "Couldn't think of anyone better to make this announcement, so respectful, precise and he delivered this sad news with such care".
READ NEXT:
- What happens after the death of the Queen: the plans in Operation London Bridge
- The best pictures from all the times the Queen has visited Wales
- The Queen paid a glowing tribute to the people of Wales as she formally opened the Senedd
- Where the Queen went to school and what she studied
- Why is Prince Phillip's will a secret?
