Broadcaster Kirsty Young was verging on tears as she gave a closing speech as the BBC’s live coverage of the Queen’s funeral came to an end.
The monarch was laid to rest with a committal service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.
The BBC’s broadcast of the monarch’s funeral started at 8am and ran through until 5pm with Young, Huw Edwards, and David Dimbleby leading the coverage.
Following the committal service she wrapped up the coverage with a powerful tribute to the Queen.
She told viewers: “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 she 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.”
Young, 54, then discussed the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the Paddington Bear speech where she appeared with the character at Buckingham Palace.
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.”
Kirsty Young delivers an emotional monologue as she signs off the BBC’s eleven days of coverage.
— Charlie Proctor (@MonarchyUK) September 19, 2022
“She made history, she was history. Queen Elizabeth II has gone, but she will surely never be forgotten.” pic.twitter.com/CuilUUiGya
Viewers used social media to praise the presenter’s words.
“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.” A third wrote: “Kirsty Young you have just brought a tear to my eye. Outstanding closing words.”
