Sussex has been paying tribute to Princess Margaret, who died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday morning.

The Queen's youngest sister died in the King Edward VII hospital, London after suffering a stroke on Friday afternoon.

East Sussex County Council chairman Michael Tunwell said: "On behalf of East Sussex County Council we send our condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and Her Majesty The Queen Mother and extend our sympathy in their sad loss.

"We recognise the enormous role that Princess Margaret played in the life of our nation and recognise the good work that she did, especially for youth."

Margaret Johnson, who chairs West Sussex County Council, said: "We send our warmest wishes and condolences to the Royal Family at this time.

"As far as The Queen is concerned, with the anniversary of the accession this week and the loss of her father it is a particularly sad time for her, it is a pity it has happened this week."

Brighton and Hove mayor Harry Steer said: "We would like to express our sincere sorrow and condolences.

"She was a direct contemporary of mine and I feel very, very sad."

At Buckingham Palace, the mood was sombre with many visitors only hearing of the death when they arrived to find the flag flying at half-mast.

A notice announcing the Princess's passing, which was attached to a board in the Palace courtyard, attracted a steady stream of tourists.

Mrs June Speller from Worthing, said: "The last few years of her life have been very difficult but it is still very sad. It's perhaps fitting that she died so close to the anniversary of her father's death.

"I came here today out of respect for the Royals. I do fear it will cast a shadow over the Golden Jubilee celebrations."

In a statement on Saturday morning the Palace said: "The Queen, with great sadness, has asked for the following announcement to be made immediately.

"Her beloved sister, Princess Margaret, died peacefully in her sleep this morning in the King Edward VII Hospital.

"Her children, Lord Linley and Lady Sarah Chatto, were at her side."

The Princess suffered a further stroke on Friday afternoon and was taken from Kensington Palace to the King Edward VII hospital at 2.30am after developing cardiac problems.

Princess Margaret had suffered at least two previous strokes in recent years.