A statement from Provost of Inverclyde, Drew McKenzie, following the proclamation of His Majesty The King Charles III.

Provost of Inverclyde, Drew McKenzie, said: “While we continue to mourn the loss of the longest-reigning monarch in British history HM The Queen Elizabeth, the nature of the constitutional monarchy means that as one reign ends another immediately begins.

“I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of Inverclyde Council and the people of Inverclyde to wish His Majesty The King Charles III well as he begins his reign.

“The King will know full well that he has a very hard act to follow but having served his apprenticeship alongside his mother as the longest heir to the throne in history, I am sure he will follow in her footsteps and take on the role with the same energy, enthusiasm and dedication.”

Provost McKenzie yesterday, Sunday 11 September 2022, took part in the regional proclamation ceremony in Paisley and then the local proclamation in Greenock.

The local proclamation was followed by an Inverclyde Service of Commemoration to HM The Queen at Wellpark Mid Kirk led by Reverend William Boyle with Lord Lieutenant Peter McCarthy also in attendance along with representatives from the council and community.

Floral tributes were also laid at the Garden of Remembrance, Clyde Square, for HM The Queen.

The Provost is today (Monday 12 September 2022) in Edinburgh representing Inverclyde at the Service of Reflection and Thanksgiving for the life of HM The Queen at St Giles’ Cathedral.

There will then be a Motion of Condolence in the Scottish Parliament this evening.