SOUTH Scotland and Cumnock politicians have reacted to the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

The sad news was confirmed on Thursday evening after members of the royal family travelled to Balmoral, where the Queen was laying in rest.

The area's politicians have since shared their thoughts and tributes.

Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP Allan Dorans said: "The country is deeply saddened by the announcement of the death of Her Majesty The Queen yesterday, I will be remaining in London this weekend to pay my respects and taking part in tributes.

"At some stage over the next few days, in Parliament, I will offer the condolences of my constituents of the Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock Parliamentary constituency to The King, The Queen Consort and the wider Royal Family.

"It is right and proper that we celebrate the unparalleled contribution The Queen made in her 70 years as Sovereign.

"The next few weeks are a time for reflection and remembrance.

"It is also a time for giving thanks to The Queen for her devotion to duty and the decades of public service she gave to the people of Scotland."

South Scotland Conservative MSP Brian Whittle commented: "The loss of Her Majesty the Queen is one that will be felt around the world.

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"Her immutable presence on the throne has, for so many of us, been a source of strength and reassurance in difficult times.

"During the seven decades of her reign, Her Majesty wore the burdens of monarchy softly but resolutely.

"The steadfast dignity with which she carried her service to the nation earned her a level of respect and admiration across the world that few, if any could match.

"I was fortunate enough to meet Her Majesty when I was a young athlete at the 1986 Commonwealth Games.

"The brief conversation we had brought me some much-needed reassurance at a nerve-wracking moment in my life.

"While relatively few of us will have been fortunate enough to have met Her Majesty, we have, all of us, in some way known her, and she has known us.

"I send my deepest condolences to the Royal Family, who not only mourn the loss of their Queen but their mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.”

A spokesperson for East Ayrshire Council added: "The Provost, elected members and officers of East Ayrshire Council are deeply saddened at the news of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. 

"Our thoughts are with the royal ramily at this time."