Bradford: New British citizens pledge allegiance to the King

Yamama Bdaiwi, 30, who is training to become a GP, described the citizenship ceremony as a "very big day for me"

New British citizens in Bradford are among the first in the country to pledge their allegiance to the King.

Yamama Bdaiwi, 30, a doctor from Syria, said the country will now "explore new horizons" with King Charles III.

New citizens are required to swear or affirm an oath of allegiance and pledge to obey the law during a ceremony lasting about 25 minutes.

The ceremonies in Bradford ended with a rendition of God Save The King.

Two citizenship ceremonies took place at Bradford City Hall on Thursday morning

"It's a very big day for me to be honest, it's warming and nice to feel that you have all the rights you didn't have in your own country," Ms Bdaiwi said.

"To be able to travel, to do research, to do your passion and job serving people."

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the ceremonies now involve an oath or an affirmation to King Charles III, a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom and end with a rendition of God Save The King, Bradford Council said.

Those present were handed a certificate of British citizenship.

Dr Bdaiwi continued: "I have two daughters, I'm amazed they have this opportunity to learn in school, learn about democracy really early and to learn how no one should control anyone else.

"It's amazing, I feel really glad and honoured to have this opportunity to live in this country, integrate with the culture and to bring my own culture from my own country."

Husnain Shabber, 32, said he felt "honoured" to be a part of one of the citizenship ceremonies on Thursday

Husnain Shabber, 32, said he was "really glad to be a part of this historic moment" in Bradford.

"I'm originally from Pakistan, I came in 2010 so it's been a long time - I'm trying to play a positive role in society and trying to make my life better," he said.

Mr Shabber, who has been studying accountancy, added: "When you come across the history of the monarchs you will be amazed how deep the roots are in history, it's really interesting."

Under the Nationality Immigration and Asylum Act 2002, all adult applicants who are accepted by the Home Office must attend a citizenship ceremony.

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