STAFF and shoppers in the Kingfisher Centre paid their respects to the Queen Mother as they observed the national two-minute silence yesterday, writes Melina Cannon.

Shops like Marks & Spencer and Woolworths were closed during the morning, while staff at other stores fell silent at 11.30am.

A Marks & Spencer spokesman said all their stores closed from 10.30am-1pm so staff could watch the funeral.

Woolworths was also closed from 10.30am-12.30pm.

A book of remembrance at the town hall was signed by 360 people.