She added that she had been practising in rehearsals with weighted replicas and that her experience in the Navy had helped prepare her for standing for long periods of time without fainting.

2PCS Union Jack Headband, King Charles Coronation Head Bopper

And there’s always great chat before an event like this, has it gone too far one way? Has it gone too far the other way? And we always get it absolutely spot on. Huge and heartfelt thanks to all who made this so remarkable. I’m so proud of you all and the King and Queen today.” Speaking to The Times’ Red Box Politics podcast ahead of the ceremony, she also disclosed she had been “doing some press-ups” in preparation for her sword-carrying role. Discussing how she feels the ceremony fits into modern life, Ms Mordaunt added: “I think this is really important to the country. I think the monarchy survives and persists because it adapts and it changes and it’s always relevant. They provide stability, we saw that most profoundly last year. And they provide continuity and I think as far as how we’re known by the rest of the world, they’re a huge part of our story.Although some weren't quite so sure, as one person tweeted: "What on earth is Penny Mordaunt's outfit? 'Star Wars Evil Empire High Command meets Game of Thrones comic-con?" Asked about being around the King with a “big pointy sword”, Ms Mordaunt admitted she did feel “a terrible weight of responsibility”. She said: “I’m very aware that our armed forces, police officers and others have been marching or standing for hours as part of the ceremony or to keep us all safe. In comparison, my job was rather easier.

coronation rites from around the Lion hides, sacred seats and coronation rites from around the

To carry the 4ft sword, Mordaunt chose flat shoes decorated with bow details and wore a pair of pearl earrings.The sword was later drawn and she carried it in its “naked” form – without its scabbard – before the King for the rest of the service. Author and columnist Caitlin Moran also commented on the social media buzz around Ms Mordaunt’s role, saying: “Penny Mordaunt’s sword is the “Pippa Middleton’s Bum” of the Coronation.” Britain’s fashion brands have gone above and beyond to create timeless, fun and quirky pieces that you really will want to keep beyond the day (and not just because coronation memorabilia like tea tins and mugs from Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation are now considered vintage treasures). And I think that it’s an important moment for the country. I think the country is proud of the monarchy and the royal family and the service they play. It symbolises royal power and being able to decide between good and evil, and the King accepting his duty and knightly virtues.