King Charles III is pressing ahead with a whirlwind tour of Bermuda today, just hours after concluding his triumphant state visit to the United States. Despite a punishing schedule in America, the 77-year-old monarch, who is still undergoing cancer treatment, is making his first visit as sovereign to a British overseas territory.
He flew into Bermuda yesterday from Washington, but his engagements begin in earnest today with no fewer than eight public elements. The King is conducting the trip solo after his wife, Queen Camilla, flew back on a commercial flight from the US capital as part of a long-standing arrangement.
Crowds Gather to Welcome the King
Locals began gathering around King's Square in Bermuda from 8am this morning to secure their positions along the Union flag-covered railings. Schoolchildren were brimming with excitement as they stood waving their Bermudan and UK flags in the sunshine.
Theo Godfrey, aged four, was fittingly dressed in a replica King's Guard uniform, complete with the red tunic and bearskin hat worn by the guards at St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace. His mother purchased the outfit from the official Buckingham Palace shop two years ago and joked: 'He's worn it ever since!'
Sisters Freya, nine, and Sophie, seven, said they were 'very excited' to see the King and wave their flags, though they were disappointed they had to return to school once Charles had left.
Jane Gregory, a retired banker, said she saw the late Queen Elizabeth II when she visited in 2009 and came today because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the King. 'It means a lot to me that he's coming,' she said. 'I'm from England originally, it means a huge amount to me, I'm very excited.'
The weather has markedly improved since downpours and strong winds earlier this morning, with bright sunshine breaking through shortly before the King's arrival.
Siblings Albie, six, and Aurora, four, spent last night and this morning making two posters to show the King. The first, written in red, white, and blue and complete with a Union flag, read: 'Welcome to St George's Bermuda King Charles III.' They also made a crown, which Aurora held on a stick. Their parents said they wanted to come down because their surname is George, the same as the town, former monarchs, and the second in line to the throne.
Ceremonial Welcome in St George's
In the lead-up to the royal arrival, town crier Ed Christopher was practicing his bell ringing, much to the delight of primary school children. He has been in the role since the late Queen's visit in 1994 and covers the whole island. When asked if he was excited to see the King, he replied: 'I hope the King is excited to see me!' Mr Christopher will announce the King's arrival.
A large banner was hung from the Whitehorse pub, the oldest pub in St George's, welcoming Charles, though it mistakenly includes the Queen too. It read: 'Warm greetings to Your Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla.'
His Majesty will be officially welcomed in St George's, Bermuda's former capital, at its ceremonial centre in King's Square. As the King arrives, a 21-gun salute will conclude, and he will be received by the Commanding Officer of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Simons. On the dais, a Royal Salute will be given before the National Anthem is played by the regimental band.
The King will be invited to inspect the guard, accompanied by Parade Commander, Major Kenji Bean. Proceeding to the Town Hall, the King will meet the Premier of Bermuda and members of Cabinet, alongside the Mayor of St George and local councillors, before returning to the square to meet community members who have gathered to watch the ceremonial welcome.
Visit to St Peter's Church
Before departing, the King will proceed to St Peter's Church, having last visited in 1970 to deliver the Speech from the Throne for the 350th opening of the Bermudian Parliament. The King will meet the Bishop of Bermuda, the Right Reverend Nicholas Dill, and Priest in Charge, Reverend Thomas Nisbett, who will show His Majesty some of the church, which continues to be a place of active worship in Bermuda.
St Peter's Church was designated 'Their Majesties Chappell' by Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee year in 2012, in recognition of their 400th anniversary. Students from local schools will line the 26 steps up to the church to greet the King.
