Charles III proclaimed King in first televised ceremony

Charles has been officially proclaimed King in the first ever televised ceremony.

While King Charles III already gained the title of the head of state the day Queen Elizabeth II passed away, Thursday, 8 September, he was officially declared head of state at 10am today (10 September).

The proclamation took place at St James' Palace in London and while the symbolic assembly followed tradition - the proclamation having taken place for more than 300 year - it marks the first to ever be televised to the public.

First, the Accession Council ceremony took place, without Charles present.

Queen Elizabeth II's death was announced by the Lord President and the Accession Proclamation and read out to confirm Charles as the new head of state.

The proclamation was attended by the Queen Consort, Prince William - who is now known as the Prince of Wales as well as privy counsellors - parliamentary members both past and present - government ministers and clergy.

Privy counsellors act as advisors to King Charles III and are the link between the government and the state.

King Charles III then joined the Accessional Council to hold the first meeting of the Privy Council.

It began with the new King making a personal declaration which included a moment of recognition of the Queen, a statement of his faithfulness to the country and a calling on the nation for support as he steps up as the new head of state.

King Charles III stated: "My mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service. My mother's reign was unequalled in its duration, dedication and devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life. I am deeply aware of this deep inheritance and of the grave duties and responsibilities which are now passed to me."

King Charles III then made an oath and signed two copies of it to the Church of Scotland - an act which is required under the terms of the Act of Union.

England's senior herald, the Garter King of Arms, will then take to the balcony at St James' Palace at 11am where the Principal Proclamation will be read.

As per tradition, Hyde Park and London Bridge should see gun salutes fired and brass instruments could play from the balcony.

The proclamations aren't over yet as another is then read at the Royal Exchange, in Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh.

The Accession Council will then conclude with the date of King Charles III's coronation having yet to be announced, but so far understood to be taking place next year.

Featured Image Credit: BBC /Ben Stansall/PA

Topics: Royal Family, The Queen, Prince Charles, News

Poppy Bilderbeck

Poppy Bilderbeck is a Senior Journalist at LADbible Group. She graduated from The University of Manchester in 2021 with a First in English Literature and Drama, where alongside her studies she was Editor-in-Chief of The Tab Manchester. Poppy is most comfortable when chatting about all things mental health, is proving a drama degree is far from useless by watching and reviewing as many TV shows and films as possible and is such a crisp fanatic the office has been forced to release them in batches.