King Charles and Queen Camilla thank Britons for ‘greatest coronation gift’ as official portraits released
KING Charles and Queen Camilla have thanked Britons for the “greatest coronation gift” as official portraits are released for the first time.
Photographs made public 48 hours after the stunning ceremony include four images which mark the future of the Royal Family and the new King’s reign.
The first professional picture shows Charles, 74, seated in his full regalia.
The snap by Hugo Burnand was taken on Saturday after the ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
The reigning Royal is posing with the crown jewels in Buckingham Palace‘s Throne Room.
Dressed in his regal purple tunic, Robe of Estate and wearing the Imperial State Crown, Charles holds the Orb and Sceptre with Cross.
The crown worn by Charles was made for the Coronation of King George VI in 1937, but is closely based on a crown designed for Queen Victoria in 1838.
It is set with 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls and four rubies – and was on top of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin.
Charles issued his “sincere and heartfelt thanks” to the nation as he and the Queen pledged to “rededicate our lives to serving” in a statement marking the coronation.
The King said “support and encouragement” and “kindness expressed” over the three-day weekend “has been the greatest possible coronation gift”
Another picture shows twelve working royals including Prince William, 40, and Kate, 41, – but no Prince Harry or Prince Andrew.
The King and Queen Camilla also posed in a joint snap with beaming smiles.
The collection of portraits have today been released for the world to see.
In a written message to accompany them, the King said: “As the coronation weekend draws to a close, my wife and I just wanted to share our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.
“We pay particular tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.
“To those who joined in the celebrations – whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities – we thank you, each and every one.
“To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible Coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.”
As the country continued to celebrate Charles, a one-off show at Windsor Castle was put on, on Sunday night.
The Royals were on their feet as they boogied to Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Take That.
More than 18million Brits tuned in to see Charles and Camilla crowned on Saturday before they led a procession back to Buckingham Palace where they made a balcony appearance.