People from all over the world became British citizens today during an extra-special ceremony in Brent on January 20.

The citizenship ceremony was used to launch celebrations of the 800 anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta in Runnymede and also coincided with Democracy Day. Around 30 people from all over the world including Lebanon, Mongolia, India, China and Bulgaria became British citizens at the ceremony held at Brent Civic Centre in Engineers Way.

They took the oath of allegiance to the Crown and sang the national anthem before being presented with certificates and a special copy of the Magna Carta scroll.

Meaning Great Charta in Latin, the Magna Carta was an agreement made in 1215 between King John and his Barons. It enshrined the rule of law in English society, limited the power of authoritarian rule and enabled trial by jury.

Mirk Rimmer OBE, Head of Registration and Nationality at Brent Council said at the ceremony: “It's an honour for Brent Council to be able to kick off a year of celebration of the 800 anniversary of the Magna Carta. British citizens have enjoyed many rights that can trace their origin to the Magna Carta so it's important to remember this foundation stone of our freedom and democracy.

“We welcome all the new citizens today to the British family and to the local community in Brent.”

The newest members of Great Britain proudle pose at Brent Civic Centre
The newest members of Great Britain proudle pose at Brent Civic Centre