“Queen Elizabeth's life was well lived, a promise with destiny kept, and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today,” King Charles III said.

“She made sacrifices for duty. Her dedication and devotion as sovereign never wavered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss”, he expressed.

“Her affection, admiration and respect, she inspired became the hallmark of her reign and as any member of my family can testify, she combined these qualities with humour and an ability to always see the best in people. I pay tribute to my mother’s memory, and I honour her life of service”, he said in his inaugural address to the nation.

“To my darling mama, as you began your last great journey to join my dear great papa, I want simply to say this, thank you, thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years”, King Charles III added in an emotional speech.

The UK begins a 10-day mourning period.