In his first statement as monarch, Prince Charles pays tribute to his mother.

In his first statement as king, Prince Charles paid respect to his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

"The passing of my loving mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a time of tremendous grief for me and all members of my family," stated the statement.

"We are extremely saddened by the passing of a revered sovereign and a much-loved mother. I know her loss is felt deeply throughout the country, the Realms, and the Commonwealth, as well as by many individuals worldwide. My family and I am comforted and strengthened at this time of sadness and transition by the knowledge of the Queen's esteem and heartfelt regard."

Charles, 73, took the throne immediately after Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday afternoon at Balmoral Castle. She was 96 years old at the time. Clarence House has revealed that the future king's name will be King Charles III.

In his first speech as king Thursday evening, Prince Charles paid respect to his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

"The passing of my loving mother, Her Majesty the Queen, is a time of deep sorrow for me and all members of my family," the statement stated.

"We are extremely saddened by the passing of a revered sovereign and a much-loved mother. I know her loss is felt deeply throughout the country, the Realms, and the Commonwealth, as well as by many individuals worldwide. My family and I am comforted and strengthened at this time of sadness and transition by the knowledge of the Queen's esteem and heartfelt regard."

Charles, 73, took the throne immediately after Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday afternoon at Balmoral Castle. She was 96 years old at the time. Clarence House has revealed that the future king's name will be King Charles III.