Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort
So who has the task of organising it all? Could Arundel even be involved in any way?
On Sept 19th 2022, some 4.1 billion people from across the world watched Queen Elizabeth II ‘s State Funeral but have you ever wondered who was actually responsible for organising and showing the eyes of the world how we do things? It certainly seemed to be something that as a nation, we are expected to do well.
So, the pressure is on to deliver and the man who spent 20 years planning for this gracious event, is now charged with arranging King Charles’ coronation in May. Who is it who will be taking on this monumental task?
Arundel should be so proud as after his perfect preparations for the Queen’s funeral, he is now taking on the huge responsibility of the resplendent crowning of the King at Westminster Abbey.
This gentleman is most certainly a ‘local’ – he is Arundel’s own Duke of Norfolk who, like his ancestors for the last 1000 years lives in Arundel Castle. Following the death of his father, Edward William Fitzalan-Howard, the 18th Duke, became England’s most senior peer in 2002.
He holds the ancient office of Earl Marshal and it is his hereditary duty to arrange the funerals for members of the Royal Family as well as the coronations of Britain’s monarchs.
Also, if that wasn’t enough, ‘Eddie’ the name by which his Grace is known, is also responsible for organising the State Openings of Parliament!
When it is and what else has to be done?
His Grace will ensure that at Westminster Abbey on 6th May 2023, some 2,000 dignitaries from around the world will all be in the right place at the right time.
Also needing to be there and somewhat essentially so, will be the St Edward’s Crown, made in 1661 for the coronation of King Charles II. Made of solid gold with more than 400 gemstones, six sapphires and 12 rubies and weighing almost 5 lbs, it will be the most spectacular sight to see this state occasion reach its’ pinnacle when the crown is place upon the head of King Charles’ III.
It will be watched by billions across the world. This joyful celebration of a new reign, truly history in the making, is rooted in tradition and pageantry with a solemn religious service at its very heart and will take into account the diverse Britain we see today. There is so much to do!
Leading up to this moment, the Duke will also be overseeing the celebrations, beginning on May 6 with the King’s Procession. This is when the King and Queen Consort will travel from Buckingham Palace, down the Mall to Westminster Abbey in the beautiful Gold State Coach.
After the Service, their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession’ which includes other senior royals.
The route for these processions will be lined by the armed forces and of course there will be tens of thousands of cheering fans throughout central London, all wanting to get the best view possible and be able to say they were ‘there’.
The newly crowned King will be joining members of his family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace where they will be able to wave to the masses of people who have come to London to experience this huge historical occasion.
Although ultimately the ‘buck stops’ with the Duke of Norfolk, he does have help from many people and will be liaising with the government, the cabinet office, the police, the armed forces, the palace, the emergency services and the King himself.
This enormous ‘group effort’ must be quite a task to ensure that literally thousands of people all know where they should be and when!
Is Arundel going to be joining in with the celebrations?
This coronation of the ‘people’s King’ – as the new monarch would like to portray himself – wanted these 3 days of celebrations to be an enjoyable time for everyone and they will include a days’ public holiday, music, street parties and late opening of pubs – of which there are plenty to choose from in Arundel!
The King’s coronation weekend will see a Coronation Big Lunch, and volunteering event The Big Help Out take place as part of the festivities along with a special concert at Windsor Castle.
Arundel has also got lots going on during these Coronation Celebrations – see below. You can find out more here and by checking our Events Calendar as there may be something you’d like to get involved with.
And finally……
The Duke has said that he ‘thinks we are an amazing country and an amazing nation and we think, your grace, you are an amazing organiser!
So on 6th May 2023 the world will be watching and we know that the Duke, our local resident, who lives in Arundel Castle, has sorted it all out in the way that seems to be expected on these occasions.
We can all be extremely proud – well done your grace and Thank You!
Written by Barb Hogan, Visit Arundel
Photos by Charlie Waring and Nigel Cull
