"I share with my colleagues around the globe a deep sadness on the passing of Her Majesty the Queen.

"The Queen has been a much loved and respected figure in the countries in which we serve across Asia and Africa. Throughout her reign, she was someone who modelled patience and kindness, always putting the people she served ahead of her own importance. This is a beautiful characteristic and one to be admired and replicated if we are to make this world a better place.

"Like our former Patron, Diana Princess of Wales, the Queen always took an active interest in the issues faced by people affected by leprosy, supporting leprosy work throughout her reign. In her actions she demonstrated a passion for alleviating poverty and a need to reach out to the most marginalised people on earth.

"What inspires me most of Her Majesty’s extraordinary 70-year reign, however, is her deep Christian faith. Some have even described her as England’s greatest evangelist. Jesus was always at the very heart of her Christmas messages that were watched each year by millions around the world. Her Majesty was a true model of servant heartedness to both her country and the Commonwealth. But first of all she was a servant of Jesus Christ.

"We offer our deepest condolences to her family and pray for the future of our monarchy."

Peter Waddup

Chief Executive