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Royal Navy supports historic opening of the seventh senedd
15 October 2026
More than 100 Royal Navy personnel welcomed Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the ceremonial opening of the Welsh Parliament today.
Their Majesties were greeted by a Royal Navy Guard of Honour on arrival at the Senedd, while the Central Band of the Royal Air Force provided musical accompaniment for the ceremony which formally opened the seventh session of the Senedd Cymru.
Earlier in the day, The King and Queen were welcomed to Cardiff with a 21-gun Royal Salute fired by 104 Regiment (Volunteer) Royal Artillery at the Pierhead following their arrival by helicopter.
The Royal Guard comprised 105 sailors drawn from across the Royal Navy, alongside soldiers from 3rd Battalion The Royal Welsh, 157 (Welsh) Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, and members of the RAF’s King’s Colour Squadron, who made up the tri-Service street-lining party.
It’s the first time the Royal Navy has paraded the King’s Colour – a silk ceremonial White Ensign featuring the Sovereign’s Royal Cypher – in Wales.
It’s a real privilege to be here at the Senedd for the State Opening by the King. It’s a prestigious event and, naturally, there are a few nerves. There’s a lot to remember, but I’m confident we’ll deliver a professional parade
“It’s a real privilege to be here at the Senedd for the State Opening by the King. It’s a prestigious event and, naturally, there are a few nerves. There’s a lot to remember, but I’m confident we’ll deliver a professional parade,” said Royal Guard Commander Lieutenant Commander Dan Hill, serving at HMS Collingwood.in Fareham.
“Training has been intense over the past week. The Parade Staff have been extremely thorough in preparing us, and everyone has responded brilliantly. It’s a proud moment for all of us to be part of such a significant occasion.”
Proud Welshman AB Dylan Eastlake, who serves with the Portsmouth-based Mine Countermeasures Squadron, was watched by loved ones from Carmarthen.
“When I heard about the Royal Guard, I was determined to be part of it. The event took place in my home country, and I’ll was on parade in front of my family,” he said.
“I’ve been in the Royal Navy for 20 months and have taken part in guards at other events, but being back home in Cardiff for this occasion makes it especially meaningful. It makes me even prouder to be Welsh.”
Fellow Welshman AB Blaine Jones, who serves as a logistics expert in Portsmouth Naval Base, added:
“To be part of the Royal Guard for the King makes the occasion even more special. We’ve put in some long hours and worked hard to ensure everything is just right.
“I’m incredibly proud to be here today. It’s an enormous privilege to represent the Royal Navy at such an important event.”
For the sailors involved, taking part in such a significant national occasion was both a memorable personal experience and a proud moment for the Royal Navy in Wales.
Following the Royal Salute, Their Majesties entered the Senedd, where The King viewed a series of creative presentations showcasing talent and achievements from across Wales.
The ceremonial opening continued in the Siambr, the Senedd’s debating chamber, where His Majesty delivered an address alongside the Llywydd (presiding officer) of the Senedd, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, and First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth MS.
The event brought together people and communities from across Wales, with musical performances at the heart of a ceremony celebrating the nation’s culture and democratic future.
Proceedings concluded with the ceremonial mace being carried into the chamber and placed in its sconce (wall holder), signifying the official opening of the seventh session.