King Charles III was proclaimed as the new monarch at a ceremony held in Whitehaven today.
Civic dignitaries and members of the public gathered in St Nicholas’ Gardens for the historic event.
Iona Frost-Pennington, deputy lieutenant for Cumbria, opened the ceremony.
She said: “Continuity of the state and a peaceful transition from one reign to the next is vital.
“It is therefore right that while grieving for the passing of one royal servant, our greatly loved and admired Queen Elizabeth II, we should without delay acknowledge and proclaim her successor, confident that in our new King, we have a worthy inheritor.
“His record of public service as Prince of Wales is unmatched in vision, commitment and longevity. At local level, we have much to be grateful for, in particular for his personal interest in communities in Cumbria.”
Flags were raised to full mast as the Elected Mayor of Copeland, Mike Starkie, read the proclamation.
There were cries of ‘God Save The King’ before the national anthem was played and Standards lowered.
Speaking after the event, Mr Starkie said: “It’s an historic moment. It’s nice to see a lot of people turn out for the proclamation of the new King. It’s a significant event and part of history that makes this country what it is.
“It’s the end of a remarkable reign. At times, it’s felt like the Queen is immortal. She is the only monarch most people living today will remember. Charles has received a long apprenticeship. I think he will make a very good King.”
Trudy Harrison, Copeland’s MP, said: “It’s really good to be here at a thousand years-long tradition to ensure the people of Copeland learn that the Prince of Wales is now King Charles the third.
“After a couple of days spent in London and visiting Buckingham Palace, I will now be taking my own flowers to the market to pay my respects.
“I want to thank everyone who has made this event possible and the incredible number of tributes and personal reflections about the time that her late majesty has spent in Copeland.”
Charles Maudling, mayor of Whitehaven, met the now King only a few months ago at a reception held at Buckingham Palace.
Mr Maudling said: “He stopped and talked to everybody. He just loves the public, like his mum. It was a great honour to meet him. Such a memorable day.”
Speaking about the proclamation of the new King, he said: “It’s pleasing to see such a wonderful turnout. It shows how well loved she is in our community. It’s such a sad occasion. It’s a privilege to have been a part of the service. It really has.”
READ MORE: Bank Holiday confirmed for Queen's funeral as King Charles III formally declared
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