Pope Benedict XVI’s lying in state begins in Vatican as thousands expected to pay their respects

Former pope’s body will lie in state until his funeral on Thursday

People waited in a queue at St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on Monday to pay respect to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, whose body will lie in state until his funeral.

The former pope's body, dressed in red and gold liturgical vestments, was placed on a dais, which was being looked after by the Swiss guards standing on either side.

He will lie in state until Wednesday and his funeral will be held on Thursday at St Peter's Square. The "simple, solemn and sober ceremony" will be presided over by Pope Francis.