Brabordos' centuries-long ties with the British Monarchy was ended last night as the country declared itself a republic at an open-air ceremony.

Rihanna, who grew up on the island, received a "national hero" award as part of the event where the nation swore in their first-ever President, Dame Sandra Mason, removing Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state.

Before quoting her lyrics to her, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley said that her Government had recommended that Rihanna be made part of the Order of National Heroes.

"May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honour to your nation by your words, by your actions and to do credit wherever you shall go," she said.

Prince Charles also spoke at the ceremony, acknowledging the "appalling atrocity of slavery", describing it as something "which forever stains our history".

Protests and marches had taken place in the country before the event, with citizens calling for an apology and reparations from the Monarchy and UK Government for slavery.

"I shall always consider myself a friend of Barbados," The Prince of Wales added.

"Tonight you write the next chapter of your nation's story, adding to the treasury of past achievement, collective enterprise and personal courage which already fill its pages."