Gloucestershire's universities and colleges have paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth following her death yesterday.

Professor Peter McCaffery, vice-chancellor of the Royal Agricultural University (RAU), in Cirencester, said: "Every one of us, here at the Royal Agricultural University, is deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of our patron, Her Majesty the Queen. We send our deepest condolences to King Charles III and all members of the Royal Family.

"Queen Elizabeth II became the patron of what was then the Royal Agricultural College, in 1952, having taken on the patronage following the death of her father King George VI.

"We have been delighted to welcome her to our campus twice, most recently in March 1996, when she and Prince Philip visited for the College's 150th anniversary."

Cirencester College shared a short film of the Queen on its website and wrote: "For the whole lives of all of us at this college, Elizabeth II has been our Queen. We are grateful for continuity and outstanding leadership she provided which has helped to make us the proud nation we are today. We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of our Queen and send our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family."

Gloucestershire College said: "We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We would like to express our gratitude for a lifetime of public service to our country, and offer our condolence to the Royal Family."

On its website, South Gloucestershire & Stroud (SGS) College, simply wrote: "In recognition of a lifetime of service to the United Kingdom. Rest in Peace Her Majesty, The Queen."

The University of Gloucestershire said: "Our University of Gloucestershire community is deeply saddened by the news of the Queen's passing and our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time.

"We join the world in mourning her death and honouring her many years of service."

In a statement, Hartpury University and Hartpury College, said: "Hartpury University and Hartpury College is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

"A keen equestrian, the Queen's steadfast leadership and commitment to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth has been historic and inspiring. We thank her for her devotion and service over the last 70 years.

"The thoughts of everyone at Hartpury are with the Royal Family at this difficult time."