HUNDREDS gathered in Eastleigh to see the proclamation of the new King, Charles III.
Politicians, veterans and members of the public all crowded around the town's bandstand on Sunday as the Mayor read out the proclamation.
Starting at 2pm, the event saw a short speech read out by Deputy Lieutenant, Hon Hugo Cubitt, before Mayor, Cllr Adam Manning finished off the ceremony.
READ MORE: Proclamation of King Charles read out in Southampton
Coming to a close, a rendition of God Save the King was sung for the first time in Eastleigh during King Charles' reign before people placed flowers and tributes at the bandstand.
Speaking after the event, Cllr Manning said: "It is a real pleasure to see so many people here today to think of the wonderful Queen and to also hear the proclamation in person of King Charles III.
"It is a sad time but we also know that Queen Elizabeth would want us to give the new King our support and our thoughts, especially for what he is going through."
The event was attended by hundreds of people who filled the Leigh Road Recreation Ground.
Another attendee was MP, Paul Holmes, who told the Echo: "It’s great to have been invited and it is really good that the borough of Eastleigh is playing its part. That is why this country is among the best in the world.
"It’s brilliant to see so many people out here in Eastleigh. The people of this country have a huge admiration for her late Majesty.
Mr Holmes added: "I wish the new king the best of luck. I pledge my allegiance to him as I will in the Commons.
"King Charles has been preparing for this for a long time. On behalf of the people of Eastleigh I wish my sincere condolences."
A message from the Editor
Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.
Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.
You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.
Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook
Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here