Youngsters at Castletown and Canisbay have a royal celebration to mark the coronation of King Charles III

PUPILS at Castletown and Canisbay primary schools had a right royal celebration to mark the coronation of King Charles III.

The youngsters at Castletown got dressed up for the historic occasion and witnessed the crowning of four House Kings as part of their fun day celebrations last Friday.

Rhona Moodie, head teacher at Castletown and Canisbay schools, said: "Opening with an ornate ceremony, King Aiden, King Harry, King Zach and King Oliver were each anointed and presented with the orb, sceptre and Sovereign’s ring before being crowned by 'Archbishop' Susan Watson. Following this, the whole school stood to sing the national anthem.

"Each King then led their house on a Coronation Tour of the Commonwealth visiting India, Jamaica, New Zealand and Malawi. Pupils enjoyed learning about some traditions from each country incorporating music, dance and art activities. As a memento, each child was presented with a commemorative bookmark."

She added: "Prior to the day, children and their families were challenged to decorate a tattie in a Royal theme. Teaching staff were very impressed by the number of entries and diverse creative ideas which were on display."

Meanwhile, the pupils at Canisbay primary enjoyed a coronation lunch to commemorate the special occasion.

These events were just part of a number staged throughout Caithness at the weekend to celebrate the crowning of the new king.

Street parties and similar functions were held in Castletown, Thurso, Wick, Halkirk, Dunbeath and Berriedale the day after the coronation at Westminster Abbey in London.

After the formality of the crowning of King Charles III, there was a procession to Buckingham Palace where the new King and Queen Camilla along with other members of the Royal family waved to the crowds which had gathered for the occasion.

On the Sunday, there was a Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle with a host of international guests.

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