Royal Mail strike, Mercury Prize, and sporting events called off following death of the Queen

Strikes, award shows and sporting events across the UK have been cancelled or postponed following news that the Queen passed away on Thursday evening.

The 96-year-old monarch passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire with her family – including Prince Charles and Camilla – by her side on Thursday.

A planned strike by Royal Mail workers on Friday is among events to be called off.

Members of the Communication Workers Union were due to continue a 48-hour walkout in a dispute over pay and conditions.

General secretary Dave Ward said: “Following the very sad news of the passing of the Queen and out of respect for her service to the country and her family, the union has decided to call off tomorrow’s planned strike action.”

The annual Mercury Prize award was also set to take place on Thursday night but organisers announced that “out of respect” the event had been axed.

A statement from organisers said: “Tonight’s Mercury Prize event has been postponed at this time of great national sorrow. We know everyone involved in the Mercury Prize will understand.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with The Royal Family at this very difficult time.

“We will make an announcement regarding future arrangements as soon as we are able”.

Harry Styles, Sam Fender and Little Simz were among the acts in the running for the prestigious prize.

In the world of sport, play in the first round of the BMW PGA Championship was immediately suspended following the announcement.

Tournament organisers later announced that no play would take place on Friday, with the golf and practice facilities remaining closed.

“Further updates on the resumption of play will be provided in due course,” the DP World Tour said in a statement.

The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) is understood to be continuing discussions with the UK and Scottish governments and its counterparts at the EFL and Premier League regarding its fixture programme and will provide an update regarding the fixtures scheduled for Saturday and Sunday in due course.