King Charles' portrait placed in Derry cathedral

The King’s representative said he was pleased the portrait would be on display at the Cathedral

A new portrait of King Charles III has been officially unveiled at St Columb’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Londonderry.

Some unionists suggested gifting it to the cathedral after they thought a proposal to hang it in the Guildhall might not get enough support from nationalist councillors.

The Lord Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry, Ian Crowe - the King's official representative in the area - said the cathedral was a fitting home for the portrait and he hoped it will be embraced by everyone.

“It’s a proud day for the city. In fact, to have a portrait unveiled of His Majesty King Charles III, as we know, is a once in a lifetime opportunity," he said.

He said the cathedral was one of the most visited tourist spots in the city and was open "to all faiths and religions and people of non-faith”.

'A very fitting place'

“I think there has been a stigma around the monarch and the Royal Family and I think in recent times people have seen past that," he said.

He said he understood not everyone supported the monarchy.

"But I think respect was shown by our elected members in our city council to vote to accept this," he added.

The King’s representative said he was not disappointed about the move to hang the portrait in the cathedral rather than the Guildhall.

"It's our town hall but I respect people's opinions on this and I respect that this is the place that was unanimously thought of by the elected members and in fairness a lot of our community thought that this was a very fitting place," Mr Crowe said.

The portrait is traditional, with the King dressed in an Admiral of the Fleet uniform with medals and honours on display.

The portrait is very traditional, with the King dressed in an Admiral of the Fleet uniform with medals and honours on display

A wide range of public bodies from schools to councils can request a free A3 size copy of the portrait.

There had been criticism when the Cabinet Office revealed the portrait scheme would cost £8m.

The picture was taken by photographer Hugo Burnand, who also took the official pictures of the Coronation and the King and Queen's wedding photos.

Elizabeth II’s reign lasted so long there was not a single official picture hanging in public buildings, but a range of photos from different eras.

The Cabinet Office said there was no obligation to replace these and the new portrait of the King could hang alongside the existing pictures of Elizabeth II.

The Dean of Derry said it is a very historic occasion

The Dean of Derry, the Very Reverend Raymond Stewart, said the unveiling was a unique occasion.

"We are very honoured that it’s here in the Chapter House and we’re unveiling it," he said.

"I feel it’s a great occasion, it’s a very historic occasion and we have lots of portraits in the Chapter House, Bishops and such like.

"It's also a place where King Charles’ mother many years ago visited the cathedral and many years ago signed our visitors' book so it’s a little extension of his life and her life.”