Following a formal accession ceremony this morning at Buckingham Palace, Charles III has officially been crowned King and Head of the Commonwealth.
The King promised to emulate his mother’s “inspiring example” in his declaration.
From the balcony of St. James’s overlooking Friary Court, the Garter King of Arms read the Principal Proclamation for the first time in front of the general public.
A rendition of God Save The King was played, and three cheers were delivered to the new monarch as crowds gathered outside to witness the historic event.
“It is my most sorrowful duty to announce to you the death of my beloved mother, the Queen,” he says. “I know how deeply you, the entire nation, and I think I may say the whole world, sympathise with me in the irreparable loss we all suffered.
“It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my sister and brothers, and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family,” he said.
Continuing the declaration, the King says: “To all of us as a family as to this kingdom, and the wider family of nations of which it is a part, my mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.
“My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion.
“Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life.”
He says he will dedicate “what remains of my life” to his new role.
He also assured the people saying, “In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these islands, and of the Commonwealth realms and territories throughout the world.
“In this purpose, I know that I shall be upheld by the affection and loyalty of the peoples whose Sovereign I have been called upon to be, and that in the discharge of these duties I will be guided by the counsel of their elected parliaments.”
Below are more photos from the event:
