'Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived': Charles in his maiden address as King

Image Source : AP Charles thanked his mother, the Queen, in his first address as a King.

Queen Elizabeth II death: King Charles on his maiden address said that his mother Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived. Charles also thanked his "darling mama" for the "love, affection, guidance and example" she showed during her reign. Charles also spoke of the "profound grief" that had gripped the royal family and the nation with her passing away.

The 73-year-old King also used the address to pledge to serve the United Kingdom, its realms and the Commonwealth with loyalty and dedication. "Queen Elizabeth was a life 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," said Charles.

"I pay tribute to my mother's memory, and I honour her life of service. I know that her death brings sadness to so many, and I share that sense of loss beyond measure with you all," he said.

Charles also used his address to create his son and heir, Prince William, the Prince of Wales and also Duke of Cornwall – the titles he formerly held. The broadcast, which followed a minute's silence at St. Paul's Cathedral, was recorded in the Blue Drawing Room of Buckingham Palace this afternoon, King Charles III and his wife, Queen Consort Camilla, greeted large crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace in London before holding his first audience with Prime Minister Liz Truss.

The monarch who ascended to the throne on the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on Thursday returned from Balmoral Castle in Scotland and was met with emotional crowds to express their condolences.

Amid applause and cheers, and even a hug and kiss from a member of the public, the royal couple made their way into their new home at Buckingham Palace.