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Hundreds gather for historic proclamation

Hundreds of people filled Andover High Street and the War Memorial Park in Romsey on Sunday, as the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Test Valley and Deputy Lieutenants of Hampshire read the proclamation of King Charles III.

Initially read at St James’s Palace and the Royal Exchange in the City of London on Saturday, the proclamation is the official announcement of the new monarch. It was then read in counties, cities, boroughs and districts up and down the country the following day.

Videos of the proclamation ceremonies in Andover and Romsey can be viewed on the Test Valley Borough Council website.

Mayor of Test Valley, Councillor Alan Dowden, said: “It was a great honour to have read the proclamation of the new King and to have taken part in such a historic event. It has been an incredibly moving few days, and just as people have gathered in grief, we gathered to mark the King’s accession to the throne and the start of a new era for each of us. I wish to thank everyone who attended. God Save The King.”

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, added: “As one era ends, so another begins – and while we continue to mourn the passing of Her Late Majesty The Queen, it is important too that we celebrate the beginning of the reign of King Charles III. A huge thank you to everyone who attended in Andover and Romsey, and to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Deputy Lieutenants for leading the services. It was great to see so many people there, which made for a really special atmosphere.”