King Charles III has led tributes to his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who died peacefully at Balmoral on Thursday afternoon, calling it "a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family."

The 96-year-old monarch visited more than 100 countries across six continents during her reign and was admired by people, politicians and religious leaders everywhere. Tributes are being paid from all corners of the globe.

Liz Truss made an address to the nation on the steps of Downing Street, saying: "Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and the strength that we needed. She was the very spirit of Great Britain—and that spirit will endure."

Boris Johnson, her predecessor, called Her Majesty "the finest monarch in our history". 

US President Joe Biden praised her "unmatched dignity," and has ordered the flag at the White House to be lowered to half-staff, while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted her "wisdom, compassion, and warmth".

Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelensky have paid tribute, while statements have been released by the leaders of Australia, India, Israel, Ireland, Germany, Pakistan and among others.

5:22amElton John: 'She worked bloody hard'Elton John paid tribute to the Queen at his final concert in Toronto on Thursday night, saying he was inspired by her and is sad she is gone."She led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace and decency and genuine caring," John said."I'm 75 and she's been with with me all my life and I feel very sad that that she won't be with me anymore, but I'm glad she's at peace."I'm glad she's at rest and she deserves it. She worked bloody hard."