Large crowds gathered in Trafalgar Square today for a rally for an elected head of state.

Organised by anti-monarchy group Republic, the second annual Republic Day featured music, entertainment and speeches from campaigners, activists, writers and politicians.

Also joining was Chuck the Rex, a fifteen-foot dinosaur mascot, symbolising the outdated relic of the monarchy.

 

Speakers included Natalie Bennett, Grace Blakeley, Kelechi Okafor, Jassa Ahluwalia, Norman Baker and Peter Tatchel, along with music from Teshay Makeda, Nasty Fishmonger and the Strawberry Thieves Choir.

 

Speaking for Republic, Graham Smith said today:

 

"We're a year on from our first annual Republic Day, held here in Trafalgar Square."

 

"Today, we're delighted to have brought a bigger and better Republic Day to the square."

 

"Our message is clear. We must abolish the monarchy if we want to change the country for good."

 

"The monarchy now costs us over half a billion pounds a year, while the rest of us face budget cut after budget cut."

"That's why it's imperative we abolish this outdated institution and change the country for good."

 

PHOTOS and VIDEOS are available here and are copyright Republic.

Republic’s next protest will be at the Trooping the Colour Ceremony. Find out more details here.