As she spoke, barks from 46 dogs from the Welsh Corgi League rang out, and she said, smiling: “You can hear them!”
She added: “The statue is for everyone.”
Before his cancer battle had been known and made public, King Charles had been invited to unveil the statue. It is not known if Palace officials had agreed to the request.
Instead, the honour fell to Alicia Kearns, the Tory MP for Rutland and Melton, before being blessed by Debbie Sellins, the Bishop of Peterborough.
One resident, Hilda Townsend, said: “It is just wonderful. We are the tiniest county, but the first to honour the late majesty in such a big way. It is a very fitting tribute.”
Her husband, John, added: “It is absolutely amazing and, as Rutlanders, makes us extremely proud.”
The unveiling of two of the three bronze corgis was given to two young children who had won a local school art competition.
In an emotional speech, Ms Kearns, 31, said: “It is an incredible statue of our beloved Queen, who showed unwavering commitment.
“We hope we can reflect on her legacy of compassion, strength and leadership. The statue was no mean feat and is for all of Rutland and all of our country, and to come together in joy. Rutland leads and others will follow.”
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