Millions of people across the country and the Commonwealth are invited to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort over a weekend of special events.
The Nation and the Commonwealth will have the opportunity to join a weekend of celebrations to mark the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort
Coronation Big Lunches, thousands of street parties, and The Big Help Out will bring communities together over special Bank Holiday Coronation weekend
The Coronation will take place on the morning of Saturday May 6 at Westminster Abbey. Tens of thousands of people are expected to visit the capital city to experience this unique and historic occasion, with millions more watching from home, across the UK and around the globe.
Coronation Big Lunches, thousands of street parties, and a day dedicated to good causes will bring communities together throughout the UK over the special Coronation Bank Holiday weekend.
On Sunday May 7 a spectacular Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle will showcase the country’s diverse cultural heritage in music, theatre and dance.
One of the highlights of the concert will be “Lighting up the Nation”, in which iconic locations across the UK will be lit up with projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations.
Michelle Donelan, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, said: “The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort is a huge milestone in the history of the UK and Commonwealth.
“The weekend of events will bring people together to celebrate our Monarchy and the mixture of tradition and modernity, culture and community that makes our country great.
“Everyone is invited to join in, on any day, whether that is by hosting a special street party, watching the Coronation ceremony or spectacular concert on TV, or stepping forward during The Big Help Out to help causes that matter to them.”
Tens of thousands of Coronation Big Lunches and street parties will be held in the UK and Commonwealth on Sunday and across the weekend. Big Lunches take place across the UK annually and last year they raised more than £22 million for local charities.
The activities on Sunday will culminate in a fantastic evening of song and dance at the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle, staged and broadcast by the BBC in front of an audience of several thousand members of the public, selected for free tickets via a public ballot.
The weekend of celebrations will end with the Big Help Out on Monday May 8 – a special Bank Holiday proclaimed by the Prime Minister in honour of the Coronation.
Created by Britain’s best loved charities and organised by The Together Coalition, it will highlight the positive impact volunteering has on communities across the nation.
In tribute to His Majesty The King’s lifetime of public service, The Big Help Out will encourage people to come out and support the causes that matter to them.
Hundreds of activities are planned for the day by local community groups, organisations and charities including The Scouts, Royal Voluntary Service, National Trust and RNLI. Further details and ways to take part will be announced shortly.
Peter Stewart LVO, Chief Purpose Officer at the Eden Project (who are behind The Coronation Big Lunch) said: “We’re so excited about The Coronation Big Lunch on May 7, it is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the celebrations and something for us all to look forward to!
“The Big Lunch has always been about community – last year almost two thirds of people who took part said The Big Lunch had encouraged more people to get involved in voluntary work. Sharing friendship, food and fun together gives people more than just a good time – people feel less lonely, make friends and go on to get more involved with their community, all as a result of sharing a sarnie and a chat in their neighbourhood.
“The Coronation Big Lunch helps you bring the celebration right into your own street or back yard so that anyone and everyone, across the UK and beyond, can be part of this amazing moment in our history. Get yourself an organiser pack, knock next door and get planning – this is going to be an event to remember!”
Jon Knight, Chief Executive of the Together Coalition, said: “The Big Help Out is going to be a festival of volunteering.
“A day when people up and down the country will roll up their sleeves and do their bit. In the run up to the day we’ll also be launching new ways of getting involved in volunteering in your community. The aim is to create a legacy of better-connected communities long beyond the Coronation itself.
“If you’re a voluntary group who wants to be part of it, please reach out now so we can make this the start of the biggest volunteering effort in our country’s history.”
National two-minute silence takes place to remember those who died in conflict
Members of the Royal Family and senior politicians will lay wreaths at the Cenotaph
Around 10,000 Royal British Legion veterans will march past the Cenotaph to pay tribute to their fallen comrades
A national two-minute silence led by His Majesty The King will take place across the UK today as the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph takes place to remember all those who have died in conflict since the First World War.
As well as the two-minute silence taking place at 11am, wreaths will be laid by Members of the Royal Family, senior politicians and faith representatives at the Cenotaph.
Approximately 10,000 Royal British Legion veterans, representing 300 different Armed Forces and civilian organisations, will take part in the March Past; they will be joined by an estimated 10,000 members of the public who will line Whitehall to watch the service.
Among those marching will be 100-year-old Second World War veterans and those who served in recent conflicts including in Afghanistan. 400 members of the South Atlantic Medal Association will march past the Cenotaph to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War. They will also be joined by bereaved family members with the youngest marcher aged eight years old.
For those unable to travel to London for the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph or to attend their local Remembrance Sunday service, the national event will be broadcast live on BBC One, Sky and ITV as well as on YouTube.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “This year more than ever, we are reminded of the huge debt of gratitude we owe those who lay down their lives to protect their country.
“As we fall silent together on Remembrance Sunday, we will honour the memories of the men and women we have lost and pay tribute to the brave soldiers of Ukraine as they continue their fight for freedom.
Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “Remembrance Sunday gives us the chance to come together to remember all those who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. This year’s service is particularly poignant as we think of our friends and allies in Ukraine.
“I would encourage everyone, no matter where they are, to come together in silence at 11am to remember and give thanks for the sacrifices made by so many.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Remembrance Sunday is a time to reflect upon the sacrifices made by our veterans and service personnel on operations around the world. We must never forget those who gave their lives in defence of our values and our great nation.
“All of us will also be thinking of those brave Ukrainians who are fighting for their very own survival to defend freedom and democracy for all, just as the UK and Commonwealth soldiers did in both world wars.
“Today, members of the UK Armed Forces at Cenotaph and around the world will come together to honour all those who came before them.”
The Royal British Legion’s Director of Remembrance, Philippa Rawlinson said: “As we come together on Remembrance Sunday, we pay tribute to Her Late Majesty The Queen, The Royal British Legion’s Patron of 70 years and longest serving Commander-in-Chief of the British military.
“Her Late Majesty was dedicated to duty and epitomised the service and commitment shown by our Armed Forces community, thousands of who will march past the Cenotaph where she laid her wreath each year.
“Her Late Majesty’s deep bond with the military lives on with His Majesty The King and The Royal Family. Similar Royal British Legion ceremonies will be uniting communities across the nation in Remembrance and today is an opportunity for us all to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of all those who serve, past and present.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will join the Rt Hon Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge, as well as veterans, and military personnel to remember the fallen in Edinburgh this morning.
The RAF Central Scotland Pipes and Drums led a parade from Edinburgh Castle to the City Chambers at 10:30am, followed by veterans, the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, and representatives from the three Armed Services.
The One O’Clock Gun will fire at 11am from Edinburgh Castle, as the country falls silent for two minutes in memory of those who have fallen in conflicts over the years.
Legion Scotland National Padre Revd Dr Karen Campbell will then lead a short service. Wreaths will then be laid at the Stone of Remembrance by the First Minister, the Lord Provost, Baroness Goldie, Minister of State for Defence, Chiefs of all three Armed Services, veterans associations and others.
Commemorations will also be taking place across Scotland on Sunday morning.
Over the last ten days, my wife and I have been so deeply touched by the many messages of condolence and support we have received from this country and across the world.
In London, Edinburgh, Hillsborough and Cardiff we were moved beyond measure by everyone who took the trouble to come and pay their respects to the lifelong service of my dear mother, The late Queen.
As we all prepare to say our last farewell, I wanted simply to take this opportunity to say thank you to all those countless people who have been such a support and comfort to my Family and myself in this time of grief.
– His Majesty The King
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN: A REMARKABLE LIFE
A new photograph has been released ahead of Her Majesty The Queen’s State Funeral.
The photo was taken to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee – the first British Monarch to reach this milestone.
Today, millions will come together to commemorate her remarkable life.
List of ceremonies and events taking place across the UK to allow people to pay tribute to the life of Her Majesty The Queen and mark the Accession of His Majesty King Charles III:
Scotland
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Council will be screening the State Funeral on a big screen in Holyrood Park in front of the Palace of Holyrood House. More information can be found on the council’s website.
Scottish Canals
In partnership with The Church of Scotland, Falkirk Council will hold a service of reflection at the Kelpies this Sunday 18th September 2022 at 7.30pm. Further details can be found on their Facebook page.
London
You can view guidance on Her Majesty’s Lying-in-State at the Palace of Westminster here. Details of accessibility arrangements are available here.
In the evening, the grandchildren of Her Majesty The Queen will conduct a vigil at the Lying-in-State.
Other Events
The following public events are taking place in towns and cities across the UK during the period of National Mourning. For more information about local events in your area please check your local authority’s website.
Moments of Reflection – Sunday 18 September, 8pm
Blackpool
The Blackpool Tower Illuminations- which have been changed to red, white and blue throughout the period of mourning in tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II – will turn off for the Moment of Reflection at 8pm. You can find more information here.
Cheltenham
A Moment of Reflection will be held outside Cheltenham’s Municipal Office, led by the Mayor of Cheltenham, at 8pm on Sunday 18 September. For more details please visit the Cheltenham Borough Council website
Luton
The National Moment of Reflection will be observed in a special event at 7.30pm on the steps of Luton Town Hall to commemorate the life and reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Please visit the Council’s website for more details.
Southend
In the City of Southend-on-Sea, the Mayor will lead a moment of silent reflection at 8pm on Sunday 18 September, to reflect on a lifetime of service which Her Majesty devoted to the United Kingdom, the Realms and Territories and the Commonwealth. For more details please visit the Southend-on-Sea website
Stoke-on-Trent
Stoke-on-Trent will hold a commemoration service on the eve of the funeral, at 6.30pm on Sunday 18 September at Stoke Minster. It will be followed by the observation of the national moment of reflection at Stoke Cenotaph at 8pm. For more details please visit the Stoke-on-Trent council website.
Swindon
The National Moment of Reflection will be observed on Sunday, 18 September with a short service on the steps of Swindon’s Town Hall. Members of the public are asked to arrive by 7.45pm for the service to begin at 7.55pm. For more information, please visit the Council’s website.
Ceremonial events
Northern Ireland
Coleraine
Coleraine Town Hall will broadcast the National Moment of Reflection on Sunday 18 September. On Monday they will also show the State Funeral.
Lisburn
The State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II streamed from Westminster Abbey will be shown on the screen in Lisburn City Centre on Monday 19 September from 10.00am.
East of England
Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth Borough Council will hold a civic service of thanksgiving and remembrance for the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at 6pm on Sunday 18 September at Great Yarmouth Minster. For further information visit the Council’s website.
Ipswich
A big screen will be showing the funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II on the Cornhill, Ipswich on Monday 19 September.
The funeral of HM The Queen will be live streamed in the Nave of Norwich Cathedral. All are welcome to watch the live broadcast from 9am, free of charge. No ticket is required. You can find more information on the Cathedral website.
Norwich Theatre Royal will also broadcast the live coverage of the State Funeral of HM The Queen, free of charge. Please book tickets in advance here.
Midlands
Bedford
Bedford Borough Council will be holding a public screening of Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral on Monday 19 September at Bedford Corn Exchange. Residents must book their place to watch the proceedings in advance. For further information visit the Bedford Borough council’s website.
Birmingham
The State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be shown on a big screen in Centenary Square on Monday 19 September. For further information visit the Birmingham council’s website.
Coventry
The State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be screened live in Coventry city centre on Monday 19 September. A large screen is to be set up in University Square – between the Cathedral steps and Coventry University – to help people watch the 11am service and pay their respects. For further information visit the Coventry council’s website.
Lichfield
Lichfield Cathedral will be holding a service of commemoration at the Cathedral at 3.30pm Sunday 18 September. There will also be a minute’s silence and outdoor vigil at the Memorial Park at 8pm, Chasetown. You can find more information can be found on the Cathedral’s website.
Lincoln
The grounds of Lincoln Castle will remain open and a large screen will be displaying the funeral for those wishing to pay their respects. Please check local information for details.
Nottingham
A multi-faith event remembering Queen Elizabeth II will take place in the Old Market Square from 7pm, incorporating the national Moment of Reflection at 8pm. More information can be found on the Council’s website.
Stoke-on-Trent
The City of Stoke-on-Trent Council will be holding a service of commemoration (with procession) for Her Majesty The Queen at 6.30pm on Sunday 18 September at Stoke Minster. For further information visit the Stoke-on-Trent council’s website.
West Northamptonshire
West Northamptonshire Council will be holding a remembrance service for Her Majesty The Queen at 11am on Sunday 18 September at All Saints Church, Northampton. For further information visit the West Northamptonshire council’s website.
A service of commemoration for Her Majesty The Queen at 3.30pm on Sunday 18 September at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Market Place, Kettering. For further information visit the West Northamptonshire council’s website.
Durham Cathedral will hold a special Service of Reflection to give thanks for Her Majesty The Queen’s life. This event will be ticketed, and the service will also be live streamed on Durham Cathedral’s Facebook page. For further information, please visit Durham Cathedral’s website.
The National Moment of Reflection will be marked with an event at 8.00pm on Sunday 18 September in Durham Market Place. More details are on the council’s website.
Newcastle upon Tyne
Live coverage of the State Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be shown on a screen in Old Eldon Square, Newcastle on Monday 19 September. Further information on the screening can be found on the council’s website. A Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving for the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will take place at 4pm on Sunday 18 September. Further information on the service can be found on Newcastle Cathedral’s website.
North Tyneside
North Tyneside Council will hold a service a service of remembrance to commemorate the distinguished service of Her Majesty The Queen at 6pm on Sunday 18 September at the Christ Church in North Shields. For further information visit the North Tyneside council’s website.
North West
Blackburn
A service will be held at Blackburn Cathedral on Sunday 18 September at 2pm. The service will also be live streamed.
Blackpool
A moment of reflection for Her late Majesty The Queen by the Blackpool Standard Bearers will take place at 11.00am, at the Fylde Memorial Arboretum on Moor Park Ave. Please refer to the Council’s social media and website.
Church services will take place on various dates across Chester, including at Chester Cathedral, Neston Parish, St Thomas Ellesmere Port and St Chad’s Winsford. For further information visit the Chester council’s website.
Liverpool
The official civic service of Remembrance for Queen Elizabeth II will take place at Liverpool Cathedral on Sunday 18 September at 3pm. Doors will open for members of the public at 2pm. For further information visit the Cathedral’s website.
Manchester
A requiem mass giving thanks for the life of the Queen will take place at 10:30am Sunday 18 September at Manchester Cathedral. A Service of Thanksgiving will also be held at Manchester Cathedral on Sunday at 2.30pm. More information can be found here.
On Monday 19 September, big screens will show coverage of the State Funeral at three locations from 9am: Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Square and inside Manchester Cathedral. Each site will be open to the public without the need for tickets. More information can be found here.
North Yorkshire
York
York Minster will hold a service a service of commemoration for Her Majesty The Queen (with a respectful procession of City of York Council members and the civic party, between York Mansion House and York Minster) at 4pm on Sunday 18 September at York Minster. For further information, visit the City of York council’s website and York Minister’s website.
South
Chichester
Special services of Choral Evensong with Thanksgiving for the Life of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be held at Chichester Cathedral at 3.00pm on both Saturday 17 September and Sunday 18 September. Further details on the Saturday and Sunday services can be found on the Cathedral’s website.
Reading
Live coverage of the State Funeral and procession to Windsor will be shown in Reading’s Forbury Gardens. There will also be a church service at Reading Minster on 18 September from 2pm. Further information can be found on the Visit Reading website.
Winchester
Winchester Cathedral will be hosting a one-hour service of commemoration at 6pm on Saturday 17 September. On Monday 19 September, a screening of the State Funeral will be held at 11am, with doors opening at 9am. The day will end with a ‘Closing Act of Remembrance’ at 7.30pm. Details for Saturday and Monday can be found on the Cathedral’s website.
South East
Canterbury
A special Civic Service will take place at Canterbury Cathedral at 11am on Sunday 18 September to commemorate the life of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The service will also be streamed live on the cathedral’s website and YouTube channel. For more information, visit Canterbury Cathedral’s website.
Hastings
The State Funeral of Her Majesty The Queen on Monday 19 September will be shown on a big screen in Alexandra Park on the top lawn (nearest entrance is in Dordrecht Way).
Hastings Borough Council is organising the event, in partnership with Love Hastings, the Business Improvement District for Hastings. Visit the council’s website for more details
Hatfield
On Monday 19 September from 10.00am, Hatfield Park will be showing live coverage of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II on a large screen in Palace Green outside the Old Palace. Please refer to the website for more details.
Rochester
There will be a Requiem Eucharist at Rochester Cathedral at 3.15pm on Saturday 17 September, attended by representatives from across the Diocese and the civic life of Kent, Medway, Bromley and Bexley. All are welcome to attend this service. The service is not ticketed, and seats will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Bristol Cathedral will offer a ticketed screening of the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Please check Bristol Cathedral’s website for further information.
Exeter
The funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Monday 19 September is being screened at Northernhay Gardens and Sandy Park at the Exeter City Football Club. Further details are available at Exeter City Council’s website.
Gloucestershire
Gloucester Cathedral will be holding a service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at 1500hrs on Sunday 18 September. This is a ticketed event for both local officials and members of the public. The expected attendance is around 1,100 people. All tickets are applied for via the Gloucester Cathedral website.
Plymouth
There will be a church service held on Sunday 18 September at the Minster Church of St. Andrew, Royale Parade at 3pm. Her Majesty’s funeral will be screened on Monday 19 September at the Lyric Theatre. More information can be found on the Plymouth council website.
Salisbury
Salisbury Cathedral will be live streaming the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Monday 19 September at 11:00. The Funeral service will be shown on a large screen and seating will be available in the Nave. No booking is required. For more details, visit Salisbury Cathedral’s website.
Truro
Truro City Council, working with Truro Cathedral, has arranged for a large screen to be placed within Truro Cathedral on the day of the State Funeral for those wishing to attend a public viewing. Further information can be found on Truro City Council’s website.
South Yorkshire
Doncaster
A Service of Commemoration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will take place at Doncaster Minister on Saturday 17 September at 6.00pm. More details can be found on the website.
Sheffield
Sheffield Cathedral will hold a commemorative service on Sunday 18 September at 6pm, with a National Moment of Reflection at 8pm. The service will also be shown on a large screen outside the cathedral on the forecourt, and streamed on the Cathedral’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Head to the Cathedral’s website for more details.
Sheffield Cathedral will also be screening the funeral of The Queen inside and outside the Cathedral. The Cathedral doors will open from 8:30am with morning prayer at 8:45am. Please refer online for more details.
West Yorkshire
Bradford
There will be a Civic Service at Bradford Cathedral on Sunday 18 September. The Cathedral will also be screening the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Monday 19 September. Further details are available on Bradford Cathedral’s website.
Leeds
Live coverage of the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be shown on Leeds Big Screen in Millennium Square on Monday 19 September between 10am – 6pm (times subject to confirmation of TV broadcast schedules). Further details are available on the Leeds City Council website.
Commemorating the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Foysol Choudhury MBE MSP said:“This week I had the privilege of meeting King Charles III and expressing to him and the Royal Family my condolences during this difficult time. I had the honour of meeting Queen Elizabeth II, and she will be greatly missed.
“I believe it is important in this period that we reflect on the late Queen’s legacy of the Commonwealth.
“I was an infant when the founding father of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, took a newly independent Bangladesh into the Commonwealth of Nations. It was the first international organisation that Bangladesh joined, such was the offer that it presented.
“Queen Elizabeth II oversaw the building of the relationship between this family of nations – one based on shared values and a brighter future together. In 1953, she defined the Commonwealth as a family, built on the highest qualities of the spirit of man: friendship, loyalty and the desire for freedom and peace.
“Her Majesty pledged then to give her heart and soul to that new conception of an equal partnership of nations every day of her life. We can affirm that she was true to her word.
“We therefore celebrate not only her legacy of public service in this country, but her role in bringing our family of nations and their people ever closer together in friendship and peace.
“In recent days I have noted that in the spirit of that friendship, and as a mark of respect for the late Queen, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina announced three days of national mourning. In her note of condolence to our Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina highlighted the conversations Sheikh Mujib and Her Majesty held at Commonwealth conferences. It is that link to the past which we have now all sadly lost.
“But this is just one of many signs around the world of the respect and esteem in which Queen Elizabeth was held right across the Commonwealth, far beyond these shores.
One did not have to meet the late Queen for long to see why she was held in such esteem by so many people across the world. The dignity and grace with which she held herself has been a steadying hand in our public life for 70 years.
“We are thankful for her long life of service, and we offer our prayers to her family and to our new King.”
The Scottish Parliament will meet today (Monday 12 September) to consider a motion of condolence following the death of Her Majesty The Queen.
This will provide an opportunity for Members across the Parliament to reflect on The Queen’s life of exceptional public service and her close and enduring bond with Scotland.
The format for the event in the Chamber will see the Presiding Officer, the Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP, welcome His Majesty The King and The Queen Consort to the Chamber before inviting each of the Party Leaders to speak to the motion.
The King will then respond to the motion.
The Presiding Officer said: “People across Scotland continue to mourn the passing of Her Majesty The Queen and I wish to express on behalf of the Scottish Parliament our deepest condolences to His Majesty The King and The Royal Family.
“This motion of condolence will provide an opportunity for the Parliament to come together to pay tribute to The Queen’s life of service and her enduring bond with Scotland and its people.
“This day will also mark a significant milestone for the country as we welcome The King to the Scottish Parliament for the first time as monarch.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who will move the Motion, said: “For countless people – across our country, and around the world – this is a moment of profound sadness. We see that in the crowds gathered outside here, at St Giles’ Cathedral, and all across Scotland. This Parliament and this nation are in mourning today.
“At the heart of it all, of course, is the sense of loss felt by those who were closest to Her Majesty. Our thoughts are with the entire Royal Family – and we are honoured by the presence here, of His Majesty, King Charles III, and The Queen Consort.
“In an ever changing world, especially in turbulent times, Her Majesty was the great constant – the anchor of our nation. Even towards the end, as her health declined, her genuine love of Scotland and profound sense of public service never faltered.
“She performed her duties with dedication and wisdom, setting an exceptional example to each and every one of us. We stand ready to support His Majesty as he continues his own life of service and builds on the extraordinary legacy of his beloved mother Queen Elizabeth – the Queen of Scots.”
While the new Sovereign succeeds to the throne as soon as his or her predecessor dies, they are formally proclaimed at the Accession Council.
His Majesty The King was formally proclaimed at the Accession Council, held at St James’s Palace, yesterday.
(Left-right) The Prince of Wales, the Queen, Lord President of the Council Penny Mordaunt and Prime Minister Liz Truss during the Accession Council ceremony at St James’s Palace, London, where King Charles III is formally proclaimed monarch. Charles automatically became King on the death of his mother, but the Accession Council, attended by Privy Councillors, confirms his role. Picture date: Saturday September 10, 2022.
This historic ceremony, which was filmed for the first time, started with a meeting held by the Privy Council. The Queen Consort and Prince of Wales were present.
In the meeting, the Privy Council officially proclaimed His Majesty as King Charles III.
The King was present for the second part of the ceremony where he held his first Privy Council meeting.
His Majesty made a personal declaration and read and signed an oath to uphold the security of the Church in Scotland: “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.”
After the Accession Council, the Principal Proclamation was made from the balcony overlooking Friary Court at St James’s Palace.
The Proclamation was read by Garter King of Arms, accompanied by the Earl Marshal, other Officers of Arms and the Serjeants at Arms.
‘I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example.
‘Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived; a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.
‘Alongside the personal grief that all my family are feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where The Queen was Head of State, in the Commonwealth and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than 70 years in which my Mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations.
‘In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her peoples.
‘That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life. She made sacrifices for duty.
‘Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never waivered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss.
‘In her life of service we saw that abiding love of tradition, together with that fearless embrace of progress, which make us great as Nations. The affection, admiration and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign.
‘And, as every member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with warmth, humour and an unerring ability always to see the best in people.
‘I pay tribute to my Mother’s memory and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you and I share that sense of loss, beyond measure, with you all.
‘When The Queen came to the throne, Britain and the world were still coping with the privations and aftermath of the Second World War, and still living by the conventions of earlier times.
‘In the course of the last 70 years we have seen our society become one of many cultures and many faiths.
‘The institutions of the State have changed in turn. But, through all changes and challenges, our nation and the wider family of Realms – of whose talents, traditions and achievements I am so inexpressibly proud – have prospered and flourished. Our values have remained, and must remain, constant.
‘The role and the duties of Monarchy also remain, as does the Sovereign’s particular relationship and responsibility towards the Church of England – the Church in which my own faith is so deeply rooted.
‘In that faith, and the values it inspires, I have been brought up to cherish a sense of duty to others, and to hold in the greatest respect the precious traditions, freedoms and responsibilities of our unique history and our system of parliamentary government.
‘As The Queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the Constitutional principles at the heart of our nation.
‘And wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the Realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavour to serve you with loyalty, respect and love, as I have throughout my life.
‘My life will of course change as I take up my new responsibilities.
‘It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others.
‘This is also a time of change for my family. I count on the loving help of my darling wife, Camilla.
‘In recognition of her own loyal public service since our marriage 17 years ago, she becomes my Queen Consort. I know she will bring to the demands of her new role the steadfast devotion to duty on which I have come to rely so much.
‘As my Heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me. He succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes on the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall which I have undertaken for more than five decades.
‘Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty.
‘With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the centre ground where vital help can be given.
‘I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas.
‘In a little over a week’s time we will come together as a nation, as a Commonwealth and indeed a global community, to lay my beloved mother to rest. In our sorrow, let us remember and draw strength from the light of her example.
‘On behalf of all my family, I can only offer the most sincere and heartfelt thanks for your condolences and support. They mean more to me than I can ever possibly express.
‘And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years.
‘May “flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest”.’
King Charles III will be officially proclaimed monarch during an ancient Accession Council ceremony which will be televised for the first time this morning.
Charles automatically became King on the death of his mother, but the Accession Council, attended by Privy Counsellors, will confirm his new role at 10am today.
The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.
The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.
A statement has been issued by the Royal Family on behalf of Charles III, the new King:
“The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family.
“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished sovereign and a much-loved mother.
“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth and by countless people around the world.
“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the Queen was so widely held.”
Prime Minister Liz Truss paid the following tribute:
We are all devastated by the news we have just heard from Balmoral.The death of Her Majesty The Queen is a huge shock to the nation and to the world.
Queen Elizabeth II was the rock on which modern Britain was built.
Our country has grown and flourished under her reign.
Britain is the great country it is today because of her.
She ascended the throne just after the Second World War.
She championed the development of the Commonwealth – from a small group of seven countries to a family of 56 nations spanning every continent of the world.
We are now a modern, thriving, dynamic nation.
Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and the strength that we needed.
She was the very spirit of Great Britain – and that spirit will endure.
She has been our longest-ever reigning monarch.
It is an extraordinary achievement to have presided with such dignity and grace for 70 years.
Her life of service stretched beyond most of our living memories.
In return, she was loved and admired by the people in the United Kingdom and all around the world.
She has been a personal inspiration to me and to many Britons. Her devotion to duty is an example to us all.
Earlier this week, at 96, she remained determined to carry out her duties as she appointed me as her 15th Prime Minister.
Throughout her life she has visited more than 100 countries and she has touched the lives of millions around the world.
In the difficult days ahead, we will come together with our friends…
….across the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the world…
…to celebrate her extraordinary lifetime of service.
It is a day of great loss, but Queen Elizabeth II leaves a great legacy.
Today the Crown passes – as it is has done for more than a thousand years – to our new monarch, our new head of state: His Majesty King Charles III.
With the King’s family, we mourn the loss of his mother.
And as we mourn, we must come together as a people to support him.
To help him bear the awesome responsibility that he now carries for us all.
We offer him our loyalty and devotion just as his mother devoted so much to so many for so long.
And with the passing of the second Elizabethan age, we usher in a new era in the magnificent history of our great country, – exactly as Her Majesty would have wished – by saying the words … God save the King.
Flags are flying at half-mast on all Scottish Government buildings, and on behalf of the people of Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has sent a message of condolence to the new King and other members of the Royal Family.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Her Majesty The Queen gave decades of her life in service and has died today here in Scotland as our longest-serving monarch.
“Our condolences are with The King, The Queen Consort and the wider Royal Family. Millions around the world will share their grief but only they will feel the loss of a mother and grandmother.
“The Queen was unflinching in her dedication to duty, unwavering in her commitment to public service and unmatched in her devotion to the people of this country and the wider Commonwealth.
“We are all saddened by today’s news and will come together in the days ahead to mourn. But it is right and proper that we celebrate the unparalleled contribution she made in her 70 years as Sovereign.
“The Queen came to the throne following the Second World War, reigned through decades of social change and lived to be the monarch who opened our Scottish Parliament in the age of devolution.
“Largely through her belief in the value of diverse nations coming together to celebrate humanity, The Queen played a leading role in creating the modern Commonwealth – 53 countries across six continents working together.
“Scotland was special to her and she was special to Scotland. Throughout her life, she had a particular fondness for Aberdeenshire and her home there at Balmoral, where she spent her final days.
“But her contribution to Scottish public life extended throughout our country and abroad and was deeply felt by thousands.
“In the coming days there will be ample opportunity for people to pay their respects by attending events across the country.
“Today is a day for reflection and remembrance. It is also a day for giving thanks to The Queen for her devotion to duty and the decades of public service she gave to the people of Scotland.”
The royal household’s representative in Edinburgh, the Lord Lieutenant Robert Aldridge, has led Edinburgh’s tributes to the Queen following the news of her death from Buckingham Palace today.
The Lord Provost said: “Throughout HM the Queen’s extraordinary reign, she showed great appreciation for her ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland. During her countless visits to Edinburgh, she reached out to our charities, veterans, serving personnel, hospitals and children and won a very special place in the hearts of Scottish people.
“Over her seven-decade reign, she has shown unwavering and inspirational dedication to the nation and I pay tribute to her years of service. I’m sure her legacy will be special and longstanding.
“I had the pleasure of meeting her in June at our historic Ceremony of the Keys and it has been my privilege and honour to be her personal representative in Edinburgh. To many she is the nation’s mother and grandmother and it is with great sadness that I convey, on behalf of the Scottish capital, our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to all the members of the royal family at this very sad time.
“Queen Elizabeth II, born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary in London on April 21 1926, ascended to the throne in 1952.
“She became the longest-reigning British monarch in history when she opened the Borders Railway line 9 September 2015, where she was greeted and congratulated by (then) Lord Provost, Donald Wilson.
“On that day in an address to the people of Scotland, the Queen said: “Inevitably, a long life can pass by many milestones; my own is no exception. But I thank you all and the many others at home and overseas, for your touching messages of great kindness.”
LOCAL MSP Alec Cole-Hamilton said: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been a bedrock of and grace in the life of our nation. Her constancy and devotion to the people of these islands have carried us through many dark times.
“I share the sentiment of grief and the profound sense of gratitude felt by so many tonight”.
LABOUR Party leader Sir Keor Starmer said: “Today we mourn the passing of a remarkable sovereign. It is a deep private loss for the Royal Family and our first thoughts are with them at this time. The nation shares in their grief.
Queen Elizabeth II created a special, personal relationship with us all. A relationship based on service and devotion to her country. Nobody under the age of 70 has known anything other than Queen Elizabeth II on the throne. For the vast majority of us, the late Queen has been simply the Queen. The only Queen. Above all else, our Queen.
As we mourn her loss, we should also treasure her life. Our longest-serving and greatest ever monarch. Above the clashes of politics, she stood not for what the nation fought over but what it agreed upon. In crisis, she reassured us. Reminding us that we are all part of something that stretches back through time. A symbol of the best of us. I saw it for myself when I led the Crown Prosecution Service.
Every time I had the privilege to meet the late Queen, she would ask the most searching questions because she wanted to understand the lives and struggles of her people. And as Britain changed rapidly around her, this dedication became the still point of our turning world. An example that taught us that whatever the challenges we face, the value of service always endures.
And the obvious love the late Queen displayed for Britain, the British people gave back in return. That is why there is such an outpouring of grief across the nation today. As there is across the Commonwealth to which the late Queen was so devoted.
Around the world, people are united in mourning. And united in celebrating her life. This togetherness is a reminder of what she achieved. A reminder of our shared values. Values which I know will be upheld by her beloved son, Charles, our new King.
So as our great Elizabethan era comes to an end, we will honour the late Queen’s memory by keeping alive the values of public service she embodied.
For seventy years, Elizabeth II stood as the head of our country. But, in spirit, she stood amongst us.
