Brown takes over at No10

Gordon Brown has promised to lead "a new government with new priorities".

Arriving in Downing Street to take up the reins of power on Wednesday, the new prime minister said he had "heard the need for change" and would "continue to listen and learn".

Brown said he was "privileged to have been granted the great opportunity to serve my country" and pledged to "try my utmost".

"This is my promise to all of the people of Britain," he said. "And now let the work of change begin."

The speech was made on the steps of Number 10 after he had returned from meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

As he begins to form his new administration, Brown said he will "reach out beyond narrow party interest". "I will build a government that uses all the talents," he pledged.

"I want the best of chances for everyone, that is my mission," he said.

"That if we can fulfil the potential and realise the talents of all our people, then I am absolutely sure that Britain can be the great global success story of the 21st century."

The Labour leader arrived in Downing Street as the new prime minister, taking over from Tony Blair.

Brown left Buckingham Palace at 2.48pm on Wednesday, having 'kissed hands' with the Queen and taken the seals of office.

Speaking alongside his wife Sarah, he then made a short speech in a sombre tone.

"I have just accepted the invitation of Her Majesty the Queen to form a government," he said.

"This will be a new government with new priorities. I have been privileged to be granted the opportunity to serve my country.

"And at all times I will be strong in purpose, steadfast in will, resolute in action, in the service of what matters to the British people, meeting the concerns and aspirations of out whole country."

He said change would be made to the NHS, there would be more affordable housing, and action to rebuild "trust in government" and to "protect and extend the British way of life".