The eyes of the world were on King Charles III today as his rule was officially declared – with a vow to “seek peace, harmony and prosperity”.
At a historic and sombre meeting of the Accession Council at St James’s Palace in London, he pledged his life to service before signing a declaration “Charles R”, the mark of the sovereign.
Praising Queen Elizabeth, he declared: “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 paid his emotional tribute in front of the Queen Consort, Camilla, the new Prince of Wales, William, and more than 200 privy counsellors – including six former prime ministers and the new PM Liz Truss. And, in a change to convention instigated by Charles, TV cameras gave the first glimpse of a centuries-old ceremony.
There was silence as the King spoke movingly about his mother, who died on Thursday, aged 96. Formally declaring his loss, Charles said: “It is my most sorrowful duty to announce to you the death of my beloved Mother, The Queen.
“I know how deeply you, the entire nation – the whole world – sympathise in the irreparable loss we have all suffered. It is the greatest consolation 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.”
Charles said he was “deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of Sovereignty”.
Vowing to protect peace, he added: “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 the Commonwealth Realms and Territories throughout the world.
“In all this, I am profoundly encouraged by the constant support of my beloved wife. And in carrying out the heavy task laid upon me, and to which I now dedicate what remains to me of my life, I pray for the guidance and help of Almighty God.”
The King declared the day of the Queen’s funeral, at Westminster Abbey a week tomorrow, will be a bank holiday.
His address was in stark contrast to the scene moments earlier, as the room buzzed with noise and loud chatter.
Dignitaries included former PMs Sir John Major, Sir Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson.
After the formalities, an official proclamation of the King’s reign was read outside St James’s Palace (left, inset). Gun salutes rang out – 62 rounds near Tower Bridge and 41 rounds beside Hyde Park.
Thousands gathered at noon to witness a second proclamation at the Royal Exchange, London. Applause and cheers of “God save the King” rang out, the crowd sang the national anthem – then cheered three times for Charles.
Later, the new King and Queen Consort returned to Clarence House – halting their Rolls-Royce in The Mall for an impromptu walkabout among wellwishers.
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This weekend, the Daily Mirror and Sunday Mirror celebrate the life of Her Majesty the Queen with a commemorative special filled with all the key moments from Britain’s longest reigning monarch. Be sure to pick up your copy of the Daily Mirror and Sunday Mirror to get both pullouts.
