Radio station issues apology after mistakenly announcing King Charles' death
The king was out and about in Belfast on TuesdayA radio station has issued an apology statement after mistakenly announcing the death of King Charles III.
Radio Caroline, which broadcasts across the UK, explained that due to a “computer error”, the “Death of a Monarch procedure was accidentally activated” on Tuesday.
In a statement, the radio station personally apologised to the king, who visited Belfast alongside Queen Camilla yesterday.
Radio Caroline issues apology after mistakenly announcing the death of King Charles
On Wednesday, the radio station issued a statement on their Facebook page.
Peter Moore, the Station Manager, said: “Due to a computer error at our main studio the Death of a Monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (19 May), mistakenly announcing that HRH the King had passed away.
“Radio Caroline then fell silent as would be required, which alerted us to restore programming and issue an on-air apology.”
He continued: “Caroline has been pleased to broadcast Her Majesty the Queen’s, and now the King’s, Christmas Message and we hope to do so for many years to come.
“We apologise to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused.”
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King Charles in Northern Ireland
On Tuesday, King Charles was in Belfast, Northern Ireland, alongside his wife, Queen Camilla.
The pair embarked on a series of royal engagements, including a visit to Thompson Dock. Here, they joined a showcase of music and culture.
A palace spokesperson said of the visit: “This visit will provide Their Majesties with an opportunity to reconnect with the people of Northern Ireland, for whom they hold deep admiration and friendship.”
We apologise to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused.
Meanwhile, they later visited Hillsborough Castle. Here, they met with the First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said on social media: “It was an honour to attend Hillsborough Castle, to be received by Their Majesties and afterwards to have a private audience with His Majesty, The King.
“I welcome this royal visit and the light it will shine on so many of our great organisations, places and people. I congratulated His Majesty on the successful visit to the USA and for his key role on the reduction of tariffs to the benefit of the UK, including Northern Ireland.”
What will happen when King Charles dies?
When King Charles dies, his son Prince William will immediately become monarch.
Like with his mother Queen Elizabeth II’s death, the king’s passing will be announced by the palace and the country will enter a national period of mourning.
He’ll also have a state funeral, likely to broadcast on TV.
The death of King Charles will trigger an official, highly choreographed contingency plan known as “Operation Menai Bridge”.
Read more: Meghan Markle’s ‘unexpected reply’ to King Charles following his heartwarming wedding gesture
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