THE Queen Mother died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday afternoon aged 101.

Her Majesty the Queen was at her bedside at Royal Lodge, Windsor when she passed away at 3.15pm.

Her condition had deteriorated rapidly this morning and doctors were called.

The Prince of Wales and his sons Prince William and Prince Harry were told in Klosters, Switzerland, where they are on a skiing holiday.

They will fly back to England tomorrow.

The Duke of York was told the news in Barbados where he was on holiday with his ex-wife, the Duchess of York, and their children Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

He will also return home.

People in North Yorkshire paid tribute to the Queen Mother who was the Duchess of York for many years.

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, will pay tribute to her during his traditional Easter sermon at York Minster on Sunday.

Worshippers will also observe a minute's silence.

The Queen Mother was one of the patrons of the Friends of York Minster.

Dr Hope said "I have heard with great sadness the news of the death of HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

"She has had a unique place in the affections of people not only in this country but throughout the world.

"Her devotion to duty and her steadfastness in the face of adversity was an immense support and a beacon of hope to many - particularly during and after the Second World War.

"Personally, I remember her as someone of great faith, of sharp mind, an amazing memory for detail, immense dedication to her country, with a keen interest in others and always with a sparkling and cheerful humour which endeared her so readily to so many people.

"May she rest now in peace and rise in glory."

York MP Hugh Bayley said she would be "greatly missed" particularly by the Second World War generation.

"She had the common touch and made the Royal Family relevant to ordinary people during the war.

"My sympathy goes out to the whole family."

Updated: 19:31 Saturday, March 30, 2002