Southend host proclamation ceremony for King Charles III

Southend Council commemorated the accession of the country’s new King with a special ceremony in the city outside Victoria Plaza at 11am today.

It was led by the Mayor of Southend, Kevin Robinson, who read the proclamation in front of hundreds of people.

After reading the proclamation, guests repeated God Save The King three times, before singing the national anthem.

Southend Proclamation (Image: N/A)

Cities and towns across the county have hosted proclamations which officially marks the country’s new monarch.

One visitor from Leigh, Debbie Madigan, 61, met the Prince, now King, when he visited Southend with Camilla in March to give the city status.

She said: “It is an important part of history for our city of Southend and across the country.

“I have always supported the Royal Family and been to lots of different occasions such as the Platinum Jubilee, Silver Jubilee, and the Queen’s mother’s funeral.

“We came to Southend when Charles and Camilla visited too, it was a fantastic day.

Debbie Madigan (Image: N/A)

“It was a mixture of emotions at the time as Southend became a city and we had the special royal visit but of course, we had lost Sir David Amess.

“It was a special occasion, and I even got to shake hands with Prince, now King, Charles as well, and speak to him.

“At the time I was like I have shaken hands with our future King, I couldn’t believe it, but little did I know this would happen within months.

“Charles and Camilla were both very down-to-Earth, they were lovely, and said they loved there visit to Southend.

“It is so sad about the Queen, she was so special to me and this country, but I still feel positive about the future with the King, I think he will follow in the Queen’s suit.”

Another visitor, Patricia Shead, 82, and her husband Tony, 88, at the proclamation added

Patricia said: “I just had to be here, the whole situation with our wonderful Queen passing, we need to show our love and appreciation while supporting the new King.

“Southend has been our home too for 50 years, so we couldn’t miss the proclamation today.

“I thought it was beautifully done.

“I think the new King will be wonderful, bring all his own gifts into the role and our country and follow the footsteps of his mother.

“How could it not really after the example she set.

“My husband and I have loved the Royal Family and visited many events over the years too.

“Today is a really special moment.”