Millions of Britons exhale with relief as news spreads of the King's positive strides in his battle against cancer, indicating his return to "public-facing duties" and signaling the continuation of this year's Trooping the Colour event.
Annually, crowds of Royal enthusiasts fill London's streets, waving flags in anticipation of the beloved event, showcasing 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians.
The event slated for June 15 this year faced uncertainty following the King's health announcement in February.
However, a recent update from Buckingham Palace confirms the King's medical team's encouragement at his recovery, paving the way for his return to duties, albeit potentially with adaptations.
A palace spokesperson stated: “His Majesty’s medical team is greatly encouraged by the progress made so far and remains positive about the King’s continued recovery. His Majesty’s treatment program will continue, but doctors are pleased enough with the progress made so far that The King is now able to resume a number of public-facing duties."
“His Majesty The King will shortly return to public-facing duties after a period of treatment and recuperation following his recent cancer diagnosis.” They added that forthcoming events will be adapted "to minimize any risks to His Majesty’s continued recovery.”
For over 260 years, Trooping the Colour has been a hallmark event, with tens of thousands lining the streets as the parade proceeds from Buckingham Palace down The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, accompanied by the Royal Family.
The festivities conclude with a spectacular fly-past by the RAF, witnessed in awe from the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
There were concerns that the popular event might face cancellation for the first time since 1955, due to a National Rail strike. Prior to that, it was canceled in 1926, from 1940 to 1946 due to the Second World War, and in 1948 due to adverse weather conditions.
Last year, King Charles made history as the first monarch in over 30 years to participate in Trooping the Colour on horseback.
Charles took the royal salute as Colonel in Chief of the Household Division's seven regiments during the ceremony, staged on Horse Guards Parade, while members of the royal family and 8,000 spectators looked on.
However, it was Prince Louis who stole the show with his endearing salute during the RAF flypast on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
