The Bible Society has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II following her death at the age of 96.

Its executive, Paul Williams, has joined millions of people around the world praising her life and service.

In a statement, Williams said the nation and the Commonwealth has lost "not only a remarkable public servant" but also "the presence of a much-loved and respected Christian leader".

The monarch was the patron of Bible Society from 1952 when she acceded to the throne.

"We cannot understand the Queen without reference to her Christian faith," Williams said. "There's a marvellous section in her Coronation service when she was presented with a Bible, described as the 'Rule for the whole life and government of Christian Princes' and 'the most valuable thing that this world affords'. The Queen's life and testimony make it clear that she took these words very seriously.

"The Queen's faith has made a real difference to her reign and to the nation. She attended church more than weekly, prayed and read the Bible. Her Christian faith has been her guide during the highs and lows of her life and because of that she has been able to be a stable and enduring presence in our national life.

'I think that the Queen's legacy is her example of what true service and duty looks like. Her whole life has been one of service. I think the Queen will be remembered in line with these words from Proverbs 10.7, "The memory of the righteous is a blessing."'

Queen Elizabeth died peacefully at her Balmoral home on Thursday.

Son Charles, who has now become King has said the family are "mourning profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved mother".