HUNDREDS gathered at Winchester Guildhall today to welcome in the new King.
Winchester High Street saw a spectacular turn-out as residents and visitors paid their respects on Sunday, September 11.
The proclamation ceremony started with a speech from HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson Esq, and then the Mayor of Winchester Councillor Derek Green led a proclamation, before he led the National Anthem, God Save The King.
This followed the county's proclamation ceremony which took place at 1pm at the Great Hall, and the national one that took place in London yesterday.
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Cllr Green said: “With humble affection, by home kings and queens to reign, to bless His Majesty with long and happy years to reign over us. Giving at St James' Palace, this 10th day of September in the year of our Lord, 2022.
“Please now join me on this joyous occasion, as we send our best wishes to our King.”
M Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson said: "We acknowledge and are grateful for Her Majesty's influence on so many aspects of our lives, and for the selfless example of duty and service she set for every one of us.
"It will be my privilege to represent the whole of our community at the state funeral as we give thanks for her life. All members of the Royal Family are in our thoughts at this very sad time."
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Scores of people came to the city today to see the momentous occasion and welcome in the reign of the new King.
Many expressed their sadness at the Queen's passing.
Winchester resident Suzanna Muller said: "It's incredibly sad because she was an amazing woman. It's going to be a real change and we're going to miss her but I'm sure King Charles is going to do an amazing job."
Tammy Hayden, from Fareham, showed her respects while her daughter played the National Anthem.
She said: "It's incredibly sad. She was a fantastic Queen. Her sense of duty and kindness and love and loyalty to the country for all these years is amazing and such an inspiration to everyone."
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