RETAILERS across Suffolk joined stores across the nation today by coming to a standstill for the Queen Mother's funeral.The event has also prompted other organisations including many tourist attractions, betting shops and the courts system in England and Wales to either close or open late as a mark of respect.

RETAILERS across Suffolk joined stores across the nation today by coming to a standstill for the Queen Mother's funeral.

The event has also prompted other organisations including many tourist attractions, betting shops and the courts system in England and Wales to either close or open late as a mark of respect.

Supermarket chains Asda, Tesco, and Safeway were due to be shut from 10.30am to 1pm, while Sainsbury's said it would do the same at its larger outlets.

Other retailers closing during the same period include Marks & Spencer, Iceland, Kwik Save, Boots, which will keep its pharmacy service open and Woolworths due to reopen its stores at 12.30pm.

Big names such as John Lewis, Debenhams, Next and Royal jewellers Asprey and Garrard, which holds a Royal Warrant from the Queen Mother, said they would not be opening at all until after the funeral.

Those who decided not to close, but instead observe the two-minute silence at 11.30am, include Harrods, Dixons, Selfridges, Comet and Harvey Nichols also holder of a Royal Warrant from the Queen Mother.

Apart from the retailers, English Heritage said all its properties would remain closed until 2pm today.

The National Trust, whose President was the Queen Mother since 1953, has decided its houses, shops and restaurants would close all day.

The British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions said that many of its member attractions would remain closed until after the funeral.

Crown and county courts in England and Wales were not sitting today but were due to remain open for other business and emergency matters. Magistrates' courts were also expected to close for hearings unless in exceptional circumstances.

Betting shops run by the bookmakers William Hill, Coral and Ladbrokes will not open but punters were still be able to place wagers online and by telephone, though there will be few fixtures to bet on.