The first British citizenship ceremony in Wiltshire has taken place following the death of the Queen.

The ceremony took place at County Hall, Trowbridge olast month and saw ten new citizens pledge allegiance to King Charles III for the first time.

A citizenship ceremony marks the final part of the process of becoming a new British citizen.

The Mayor of Trowbridge, Graham Hill who attended the ceremony said there was “absolutely” a sense of historic significance to the occasion.

He added: “It was really strange because in the previous week my duty was to be there at the proclamation of King Charles III and then we had the minute’s silence and then this.

“It was quite surreal having to remember God save the King after a lifetime of saying God save the Queen.

“It was quite emotional, there was barely a dry eye in the house. It was special.”

He added this was the climax of a long journey for some and said: “There were a few tears. Some of them have been going through this process for up to six or seven years and that added another layer to the experience.”

Four or five of the ten new citizens are serving in the armed forces according to Mr Hill.

The event was supported by Deputy Lieutenant Mr Patrick Wintour as the King's representative.

At the ceremony, each citizen had to repeat the words of the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance to His Majesty, which includes the follow statement: "I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, his heirs and successors, according to law".

For the last part of the ceremony, all new citizens are asked to sing the national anthem, God Save The King.  

During the ceremony there is also an official photographer who takes pictures as the citizenship certificate is handed over.

The occasion usually lasts around 30 minutes. 

Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Governance Ashley O'Neill said: "This ceremony would have of course been memorable for the new citizens regardless of the circumstances, but pledging allegiance to the new King at a time of hugely historical significance for this country would have made this an even more special experience.

"We wish the new citizens and their families all the very best for the future."

For more information about citizenship ceremonies, please click here.