King Charles Breaks Queen Elizabeth’s January Tradition with Early London Return
King Charles Breaks Queen Elizabeth’s January Tradition with Early London Return
King Charles has returned to London after spending time at his Sandringham estate over the Christmas period. Unlike his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who traditionally stayed at her Norfolk residence until February 6th, the anniversary of her father King George VI’s death, Charles has been doing things differently since his reign began over three years ago.
The King’s Recent Engagements
The monarch attended a service at St Mary Magdalene Church near Sandringham House with his wife, Queen Camilla, last Sunday. According to the Court Circular, the King received Dr. Nathan Ross at Clarence House on Monday evening. Dr. Ross was invested with the insignia of a member of the Royal Victorian Order upon relinquishing his appointment as Assistant Private Secretary to His Majesty.
Dr. Ross began working for the monarch’s household in 2023, having previously served as the Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea. The Royal Victorian Order, established by Queen Victoria in 1896, recognizes distinguished personal service to the monarch and members of the royal family.
Upcoming Plans
The King and Queen are expected to resume their public duties in the coming weeks after hosting members of the royal family at Sandringham over the festive period. The couple may also spend some time at their Scottish residence, Balmoral, as they did last January. Charles and Camilla often attend a service at Crathie Kirk church, known as the regular place of worship for the British royals when staying at the Castle.
Last month, Charles announced in a video message that his cancer treatment is being reduced in the new year, citing early diagnosis and successful care as the reasons for this positive development. Despite his treatment, the monarch hosted three state visits for the Presidents of France, the US, and Germany, and carried out overseas trips to Poland, Italy, Vatican City, and Canada.
It’s rumored that the King and Queen are set to visit Washington DC for a historic state visit to mark the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States in April. According to royal author Robert Jobson, the visit, at the invitation of President Trump, is certain to be another example of royal soft power diplomacy at its best.
