A child from East Lancashire has melted the hearts of hundreds after he saluted the late Queen Elizabeth II on her journey to London.

The plane carrying Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin flew over East Lancashire yesterday (September 13) and was travelling to RAF Northolt in London.

Three-year-old Edward Almond, from Bacup, wanted to pay his respects to the Queen on her journey.

Lancashire Telegraph: Edward Almond saluting the plane carrying Queen's coffin Edward Almond saluting the plane carrying Queen's coffin (Image: Michael Almond)

While dressed as a member of the Queen’s Guard, he saluted the sky as the  Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft flew over his home town.

Edward’s dad, Michael, shared photos of the tribute and told the Lancashire Telegraph: “He wanted to march like a soldier and see the Queen.”

Hundreds of social media users have since seen the photo and left comment on the post.

One person said: “A lovely show of respect for such a young age. Well done to his parents.”

Another said: “Well done young man. You could teach us adults a thing or two”

“Such respect, bless him and his parents,” said a third.

Tony Ireland said: “Edward, keep doing what you are doing.”

Another said: “Definitely a soldier in the making, he looks so smart.”

Pictures have also emerged of Edward saluting the new King Charles, while also dressed as a guard.

Lancashire Telegraph: Edward Almond, 3, saluting King CharlesEdward Almond, 3, saluting King Charles (Image: Michael Almond)

Earlier this year, Edward spent his third birthday on the East Lancashire Railway where he could follow in the footsteps of his late great grandfather, Brian Almond, who used to be a station master in the area.

In an adorable video taken at Rawtenstall Station, Edward can be seen blowing a whistle, raising his hand and shouting "right away" as his great-grandpa Brian did many a time.

Queen Elizabeth’s coffin has now arrived in London. Today (September 14) the King and his sons will walk behind the Queen’s coffin as she leaves Buckingham Palace for the final time ahead of her lying in state.

The royal family will accompany their matriarch on foot on the journey to Westminster Hall where hundreds of thousands of people are expected to pay their respects after queueing for hours.

Charles, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Sussex, along with the Duke of York, the Princess Royal and the Earl of Wessex, will form part of the procession this afternoon.