I will follow her example

Charles dedicates life to service as he is proclaimed king

- RUSSELL MYERS

THE eyes of the world were on King Charles III yesterday as his rule was officially declared – with a vow to “seek peace, harmony and prosperity”.

At a historic and sombre meeting of the Accession Council at St James’s Palace in London, he pledged his life to service before signing a declaration “Charles R”, the mark of the sovereign.

Praising Queen Elizabeth, he declared: “My Mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.

“My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life.”

He paid his emotional tribute in front of the Queen Consort, Camilla, the new Prince of Wales, William, and more than 200 privy counsellors – including six former prime ministers and the new PM Liz Truss. And, in a change to convention instigated by Charles, TV cameras gave the first glimpse of a centuriesold ceremony.