Mayor of Hungerford recites Proclamation of Ascension of King Charles III

FOR the first time in centuries, the words 'God save the King' rang out on the steps of Hungerford Town Hall.

Residents gathered to hear town mayor Helen Simpson recite the proclamation of ascension at 4pm on Sunday, September 11.

For these few moments, the town hall flag, which had been at half mast since the death of the Queen, was raised as town bellman Julian Tubb rang his bell and exhorted residents to gather round.

Mrs Simpson, accompanied by civic dignitaries from the town council including the Constable of the Town & Manor of Hungerford, Peter Joseph and the police, said: "Our sadness at this time is shared by people across the globe as we remember with affection and gratitude the lifetime of service given by our longest reigning monarch.

"The basis on which our monarchy is built has ensured that, through the centuries, the crown has been passed on in an unbroken line of succession.

"Today's ceremony marks the formal proclamation to the people of Hungerford of the beginning of the new King's reign."

After the proclamation is read, Mrs Simpson concluded with the words "God save the King."