POLICE officers from Northumbria joined colleagues across the country in the capital after Queen Elizabeth II's death.

Officers - and their horses - supported the major policing operation in London in the wake of the late majesty's death.

On the day of the monarch's state funeral, PC Claire Banks was chosen to represent the force and was stationed outside Buckingham Palace.

PC Banks had been at the heart of planning the area’s response to the Queen’s passing, working with partners to ensure activity locally ran safely and smoothly.

She said: “I was extremely proud to represent Northumbria Police as the nation came together to remember and pay tribute to Her Majesty.

“It was a real privilege to play a part in supporting the Queen’s final journey – it is certainly an experience which will stay with me.

“When I became an officer more than 20 years ago, I swore allegiance to the Queen and it has been an honour to have served her."

Two riders and horses from the force's mounted section also took part in the funeral procession to Windsor Castle.

PCs Gerrard Sharp and Lucy Adair, riding Pluto and Parker, joined other police colleagues and military personnel on the poignant journey.

"We are proud of all our officers, staff and volunteers – both those who were deployed to London and those who stayed here – in the role they played in supporting the historic events to mark the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II", said a Northumbria Police spokesman.