1952: The Death of George VI

John Snagge reads the formal announcement from Sandringham that King George VI has died peacefully in his sleep. Expressing sympathy for the Queen and the Royal Family on behalf of the BBC, he concludes by informing listeners that the rest of the day's publicised schedule has been cancelled, aside from news bulletins and essential shipping forecasts. George VI was one of the United Kingdom's most beloved and respected monarchs.

Throughout the war, and in particular during the bombardment of the Blitz, the Royal Family was seen to share in the sufferings of ordinary Londoners, especially after the bombing of Buckingham Palace. After his death, the King's body lay in state for three days in Westminster Hall. During this period, about 300,000 people filed past the coffin to pay their respects. The picture shows Princess Elizabeth returning from Kenya on 7 February. She was proclaimed Queen the following day.

BBC Archive: Originally broadcast 6 February 1952.