Statement from Mark Fisher, chief executive of NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care:

It is with great sorrow that we have learned of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

“On behalf of the NHS in Greater Manchester, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and sincerest condolences to all the Royal Family. Throughout her life, Her Majesty the Queen served us all with unwavering loyalty, dedication and leadership; and her absence is something many of us will find difficult to accept.

“At this time, in addition to sharing a profound sense of loss, we recall with fondness the times we welcomed Her Majesty the Queen to Greater Manchester – opening new hospital wards, and the hand of friendship she extended to us after the Manchester Arena Attack. We were all moved by her visit and support to our city-region.

“We are honoured to have received such support from Her Majesty and will think of her visits with renewed warmth as we join the nation in mourning.

The flag outside the main entrance of Royal Bolton Hospital has been lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

A Book of Condolence is open at the front desk of the hospital for staff, patients and visitors.