HUNDREDS of people filled Andover High Street on Sunday as the Mayor of Test Valley and and Professor Khalid Aziz LVO DL read the proclamation of King Charles III.

Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Alan Dowden, said: “It was a great honour to have read the proclamation of the new King and to have taken part in such a historic event. It has been an incredibly moving few days, and just as people have gathered in grief, we gathered to mark the King’s accession to the throne and the start of a new era for each of us. I wish to thank everyone who attended. God Save The King.”

Initially read at St James’s Palace and the Royal Exchange in the City of London on Saturday, the proclamation is the official announcement of the new monarch.

READ MORE: King Charles III makes promise to nation after death of Queen Elizabeth II

It was then read in counties, cities, boroughs and districts up and down the country the following day.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, added: “As one era ends, so another begins - and while we continue to mourn the passing of Her Late Majesty The Queen, it is important too that we celebrate the beginning of the reign of King Charles III. A huge thank you to everyone who attended in Andover and Romsey, and to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Deputy Lieutenants for leading the services. It was great to see so many people there, which made for a really special atmosphere.”