Charles III was formally proclaimed king on Saturday at a ceremony held in St James Palace that was televised for the first time in history. Addressing his audience, the new king acknowledged his mother's legacy.
"I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty which have now passed to me," he said. "In taking up these responsibilities I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set."
The 73-year-old son of Elizabeth II, who died on Thursday, was officially named as the new British monarch at a meeting of the Accession Council attended by senior members of government and other dignitaries.
These included the new prime minister of the UK, Liz Truss, her predecessor Boris Johson, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, and Charles' son Prince William, who has become the new Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne.
There were other former prime ministers in attendance, including Gordon Brown, David Cameron, John Major, Tony Blair, Boris Johnson and Theresa May.
The highly ceremonial event was symbolic, as Charles automatically became king upon his mother's death.
"My Lords, it is my sad duty to inform you that her most gracious majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, has passed away on Thursday the 8th of September 2022 at Balmoral Castle," began Penny Mordaunt, Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council, who chaired the event.
Then, the Clerk of the Council read out an elaborately worded address. "Charles III, by the grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of his other realms and territory, King, head of the commonwealth, defender of the faith, to whom we do acknowledge all faith and obedience with humble affection, beseeching god by whom kings and queens do reign to bless his majesty with long and happy years to reign over us."
The speech ended with a "God save the King" that was echoed by all those present. The proclamation was signed, and following old tradition, orders given to let the entire kingdom formally know that they have a new monarch - regardless of the days-long live coverage. These orders included reading out the proclamation on the palace balcony and holding gun salutes in Hyde Park and the Tower of London.
Members of the Council then gathered inside the Throne Room to greet Charles III.
In the second part of the ceremony, the king addressed the council in a speech that acknowledged his mother's legacy and the challenges up ahead.
"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. I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty which have now passed to me," he said. "In carrying out the heavy task that has been laid upon me, to which I dedicate what remains to me of my life. I pray for the guidance and help of almighty God."