King Charles issues special orders to Palace in tribute to 'dearest' royal

King Charles has issued special orders to the Palaces to mark the death of King Harald V of Norway, his "dearest cousin".

Flags are flying at half-mast at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh 

They will remain at half-mast until 2000 (8:00 PM) tonight.

The 77-year-old  also shared a touching tribute to his cousin and fellow monarch, who died at the age of 89.

Earlier, the Norway’s government declared a period of national mourning Friday, lasting until after King Harald's funeral. The date has yet to be announced.

Flags will also fly at half-mast at royal residences, public buildings and military facilities throughout the mourning period. 

A royal flag adorned with mourning ribbons was raised from the balcony of the Royal Palace in Oslo. Bells rang at Oslo Cathedral as residents gathered in the capital hours after the monarch’s death was announced.

Tributes from monarchies around the world have also poured in, with King Frederik of Denmark posting a sentimental letter he and wife Queen Mary sent to Norway's new king, King Harald and Queen Sonja's son, Haakon.