Spalding-area MP Sir John Hayes says death of Queen Elizabeth one of the saddest days of his life

MP Sir John Hayes says the death of Queen Elizabeth is one of the saddest days of his life.

Sir John, who was awarded the CBE by Britain's longest serving monarch and knighted by the new King, then Prince Charles, says his grief is only rivalled by the death of his mother, father and sister.

The South Holland and the Deepings MP said: "I was having tea in the House of Commons when the news came through. Many of the staff there were in tears and I must say I felt my lip tremble.

"Queen Elizabeth was a shining beacon in this country and many others and the likes of her will never be seen again. She was a wonderful, compassionate woman with a fantastic sense of humour and a great sense of duty."

Sir John said he had met the Queen several times during his 25 years as an MP, including as a member of the Privy Council.

When awarded the CBE by the Queen in 2016, Sir John attended with his wife Susan and sons. He said: "My family saw her beam at me and they wondered what had been said.

"I had told her I had been due to make an important transport announcement in the House of Commons that day, but obviously could not do it as I wanted to be at the Palace. She gave me a huge smile and said I'd made the right decision."

The MP added that King Charles had a huge role to fill, but that he is a big fan of the new Monarch and believes he is more than capable.

"I have met Charles on several occasions and we do know each other, although I would not be so bold as to say we are friends. I was delighted when it was he who Knighted me in 2018."

Sir John, who spokes of the Queen in Parliament today, said he intends to take his whole family to London next week, where her coffin will lie in state.