As King Charles III and the Princess of Wales continue their cancer battles, thousands of supporters have sent a staggering number of encouraging letters. Recently, the father-daughter duo expressed their profound shock upon hearing about a horrific mass stabbing in Southport, Merseyside. The tragic incident left six children in critical condition, along with two adults. Nine other children also sustained injuries. The youngsters had been participating in a sold-out Taylor Swift dance class when the attack occurred.
Merseyside police have arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. A swift police investigation is underway, with Chief Constable Serena Kennedy confirming that no motive has been established yet, though officers do not believe the attack was terror-related.
Following the release of Buckingham Palace's statement, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued a statement via Kensington Palace on social media. William and Catherine expressed their sorrow, stating, "As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through. We send our love, thoughts, and prayers to all those involved in this horrid and heinous attack." They also thanked emergency responders for their compassion and professionalism in such dire circumstances.
Two children were killed, six were critically injured, and three other children suffered injuries. Two adults were also critically injured. Meanwhile, the King released his own message, stating, "My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear about the utterly horrific incident in Southport today. We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers, and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives and to all those affected by this truly appalling act."
On Monday, the Prince and Princess of Wales congratulated Team GB athletes who won gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Though they were not present at the games, they shared their joy on social media. The couple wrote, "Huge congratulations to the equestrian eventing team and Tom Pidcock in the mountain biking on winning Team GB's first gold medals. Here’s to more success ahead." Ros Canter, Laura Collett, and Tom McEwen secured Great Britain's first gold medals in the eventing team final, just hours before Pidcock clinched first place in the men's cross-country mountain biking.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are currently enjoying the school summer holidays with their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Catherine has not officially returned to public duties amid her ongoing cancer treatment, but she made appearances at Trooping the Colour and Wimbledon men's final. Her husband was last seen publicly at the Euro 2024 final with their eldest son in Berlin on July 14th.
In the latest report, the Royal Household released the Sovereign Grant report for the 2023-2024 financial year. This report details the Royal Family's annual financial statement and highlights their official work. It revealed that nearly 30,000 letters were sent to King Charles III and the Princess just after they announced their cancer diagnosis. The report also noted that the Royal Household received a total of 138,139 letters, featuring well-wishes to the two Royals following their diagnosis.
King Charles III publicly read some letters from his supporters. Following his cancer diagnosis, Camilla has proven herself by stepping up to Royal duties as needed. Her role during the Commonwealth Day service on March 23rd highlighted her commitment and demonstrated a day of unity for the Royal Family despite past tensions. William and Camilla have developed a mutual respect and a close bond over the years. Their interactions and the respect they show each other reflect a deep connection. Camilla cares for William deeply, and he reciprocates that affection. In his maiden speech as King, Charles acknowledged the crucial support of his "darling wife" Camilla.
Princess Catherine's emotional and courageous video announcement from her Windsor home will be remembered as a watershed Royal moment.