Long live the king

London turned out in force to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. The first coronation in 70 years saw those who wanted to get the best view of the historical event sleep out in the cold and rain along the route of the procession.

Whilst politicians, dignitaries and heads of state from around the world arrived at Westminster Abbey, where the coronation was to take place, the king and queen took part in an elaborate military procession.

For those who had slept on the street it was worth the wait.

Joann Howell: "Amazing."

Helen Calvert: "Absolutely incredible."

Joann Howell: "Loved every minute even though we're wet."

Helen Calvert: "Honour and a privilege to have been here."

Joann Howell: "And it was worth staying out all night in the freezing cold."

Shahenez Suleman: "Oh Gosh I'm speechless and amazed, I've got the the best seat as well, to take the best pictures. Just can't see, when you see, it's real, isn't it, seeing him, in the carriage."

Amidst the celebrations there were, however, voices of dissent. Demonstrators in Trafalgar Square, on the route of the procession, opposed the idea of the monarchy in the 21st century.

Kieran Smith: "I just think in the 21st century it’s abhorrent that we’ve got a monarchy that’s not democratically elected in. That we aren’t part of a republic."

As the newly crowned King Charles III and Queen Camilla returned to Buckingham Palace in the gold state coach, they were followed by the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children and accompanied by 4,000 members of the armed forces. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement.

As soon as allowed, spectators rushed to the gates of the palace to see the king and queen as they appeared on the balcony and watch the traditional flypast.

The rain didn't appear to dampen anyone’s spirits and hours later people were still lingering on the mall so they could say they were there on coronation day. Weniger anzeigen