The Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead has addressed His Majesty, King Charles III, on behalf of residents, and presented a scroll to celebrate his accession to the throne.
The Mayor, Cllr Christine Bateson, led a small civic delegation to Buckingham Palace for the Loyal Address to the Sovereign ceremony on Thursday.
The Royal Borough is a Privileged Body and just one of 27 organisations in the country to have the title and ability to give a Loyal Address.
In her speech, Cllr Bateson, said it was a “very great honour” to present the Loyal Address and referenced the borough’s strong and enduring bond with The Royal Family.
She said there was also pride in the The King’s personal bond with the Royal Borough, including His Majesty being its Honorary Freeman and High Steward.
She concluded her address: “Sir, the residents of the Royal Borough would wish me to both thank and congratulate you for the leadership and service you have given to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. Long may you reign.”
The highly decorated scroll is held in a presentation case. It expresses sympathy for the death of Queen Elizabeth II, who made Windsor her home, and looks forward to the work and leadership of The King and Queen Consort. The document also bears the common seal of the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead.
Cllr Bateson said: “It was such a privilege to lead a delegation to represent the Royal Borough, at the Address to the King.
“I performed the formal address and presented the scroll, which is in a presentation case, to mark his accession.
“On a day-to-day basis, we are proud to represent the residents of the Royal Borough which shares a unique link, a rich history, and relationship with The Royal Family.
“To then represent our residents in the Ballroom at Buckingham Palace, was incredibly special occasion.”
It is only the sixth time since Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne in 1952 the Address has taken place. It is the second time for His Majesty, with one held in 1981 on the announcement of his engagement.
Now a ceremonial service, the Address was historically used for significant subjects to openly declare their loyalty to the sovereign.
Pictures show - The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead Mayor, Councillor Christine Bateson, making her address to His Majesty, King Charles III, at Buckingham Palace. There is permission for media to reproduce the image, but we would ask you to include the copyright of Ian Jones.
The highly decorated presentation scroll.