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Royalty under the spotlight

Listen to broadcast clips of some of the great royal ceremonial events of the past sixty years - and hear the views of ordinary people on the changing face of the monarchy.

	Abdication - news report: Alvar Liddell breaking the news of King Edward VIII's decision to abdicate the throne in 1936. The tone was respectful and the news was delivered without comment, despite its momentous nature. Play audio
	The King abdicates: Edward VIII announced his decision to abdicate in a personal broadcast on radio. The public's shock at the announcement must have been heightened by hearing the monarch addressing them directly. Many felt that his love for a divorced American woman was wrong, but to others, his choice was overwhelmingly romantic. Play audio
	Abdication and accession: The proclamation of King George VI's accession to the throne was announced to the sound of trumpets by the King's Herald, Sir Gerald Wollaston. The occasion was broadcast to the nation on radio. Play audio
	Wedding mania: The 1947 royal wedding between Princess Elizabeth and Philip was extravagant and beautiful, particularly as food and clothes were still rationed at the time. In 1981 there was a similar fascination with the wedding of Charles and Diana which seemed, at the time, like fairytale. Play audio
	Coronation day 1953: In June 1953, the Archbishop of Canterbury crowned Elizabeth as queen. She rode to Westminster Abbey in a golden carriage, wearing an ermine cloak; on her head a jewel-encrusted crown was placed. Memories and contemporary commentary. Play audio
	Royalty - a weary public loses interest: Earlier in the 20th century it was common to stand during the national anthem, even in private homes. But after the world wars, fervent loyalty to the Royals began to wane. Play audio

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