Watford holds a proclamation ceremony for King Charles III

The ceremony took place at the Peace Memorial by the Town Hall on Sunday, September 11 at 4pm.

Crowds gathered to witness the ancient tradition that dates back hundreds of years.

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Watford Borough Council’s chairman, councillor Amanda Grimston formally announced that the Queen has died, and the King has acceded the throne.

People shared with the Watford Observer why they felt it was so important to attend the ceremony.

Crowds gathered to watch the ceremony at the Peace Memorial near the Town Hall. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

Julia Petchey, 39, grew up in Watford and was visiting her parents for the weekend when they decided to attend.

She said: “The Queen touched so many people. A lot of people feel really connected to her

Julia Petchey. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

“This is part of history and it’s amazing that everyone has come together, however, it is sad as well.”

Rabbi Chalk attended the ceremony with his family.

He said: “I’m here to represent my community.

“As religious Jews we always pray for the success of the monarch.

Rabbi Chalk attended with his family. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

“We believe that as the figure head they are one of the most important people in the country.

“We are all very sad by the death of the Queen and we are here to pray for the success of King Charles III.”

Another person who attended was Pat Baxter who lives on Devon Road. For her, seeing the historical moment was important.

She said: “I’m not a monarchist, but this is history, and I was sad when the Queen died.

“I was not a fan of Charles before, but I have been blown away by his first few days [as King].”

Margaret Howard and Pat Baxter. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

Margaret Howard attended in her role as the Watford North Scouts District Chairwoman of the executive committee.  

She said: “I am a monarchist, and the passing of the Queen is monumental.

“I think the proclamation is a once in a lifetime moment.

“And I wanted to explain to my grandchildren why it was so important.”

Margaret Howard with her grandchildren Harry, 4 and Rory, 2. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

Alison Wiesner, 61, from North Watford, found the ceremony to be impressive.  

She said: “The proclamation makes me think of Shakespeare. It was very moving.”

Alison Wiesner. Picture: Kimberley Hackett (Image: Kimberley Hackett)

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