A large crowd gathered on the Minster Green in Axminster to hear the proclamation of the accession of King Charles III today (Monday).

The proclamation was made by the Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Jill Farrow.

Cllr Farrow was accompanied by a civic party, including town crier Nick Goodwin who gave an introduction, district councillor and town clerk Paul Hayward, district councillor Sarah Jackson, Devon County Council chair Ian Hall and fellow town councillors.

The proclamation was followed by three cheers for the new King, the national anthem and then a two-minute's silence to honour the late Queen.

The proclamation came after the Accession Council met at St James' Palace in London on Saturday to officially announce Ling Charles III as the new sovereign, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. 

A book of condolence for residents to leave messages for the Queen is now open at Axminster Town Council offices at the Guildhall.

Floral tributes can also be laid on the Minster Green along the south face of the church (the side that overlooks the Old Courthouse, not the war memorial side).