As Barbados became a republic on November 30, the Queen offered her congratulations to the country as she was removed as its head of state. As heir apparent to the throne, Prince Charles was present in Barbados in the Queen's absence, and he gave a heartfelt speech to those in attendance.

       Guests at the celebratory event included Barbados' new President Sandra Mason and music icon Rihanna.

       Charles told those in attendance: "The creation of this Republic offers a new beginning, but it also marks a point on a continuum, a milestone on the long road you have not only travelled but which you have built.

       "From the darkest days of our past, and the appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our history, the people of this island forged their path with extraordinary fortitude.

       "Emancipation, self-government and Independence were your way-points.

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       "Freedom, justice and self-determination have been your guides.

       "Your long journey has brought you to this moment, not as your destination, but as a vantage point from which to survey a new horizon."

       Charles added that he would "always consider myself a friend of Barbados".

       But the future King will never serve as the country's head of state now it is a republic.

       The Queen is currently head of state in 15 countries, including the UK, but this responsibility will pass to Prince Charles when he is King.

       The Queen is currently head of state in:

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       In recent decades, several other countries have removed the Queen as head of state.

       Guyana removed the Queen as head of state in 1970, as did Trinidad and Tobago in 1976.

       Dominica also removed the Queen from the position in 1978, as did Mauritius in 1992.

       Some have suggested that Barbados' recent decision to remove the Queen as head of state could lead to further countries following suit.

       Graham Smith, chief executive officer of the organisation Republic, which campaigns for an elected head of state, said Barbados' decision could influence others: "A huge congratulations to Barbados for this historic moment in their nation's story.

       "Barbados isn't just doing themselves a favour, but are showing the way for the other 15 Commonwealth realms."

       He added: "The transition in Barbados has also triggered calls for slavery reparations and an apology from the royals for their family's part in the slave trade.

       "Those calls aren't going away and there's no way the royals come out of that debate without significant damage to their reputation."