The King's visit to Lancaster

On Monday the 9th of June, HRH King Charles III made his first visit to Lancaster since being crowned as King in 2023. Given the significance of this event, us at The Bailrigg Times felt it was worth describing his visit, from the perspective of a university student. 

Before discussing the visit itself however, it's worth explaining what exactly the King was doing in the city. As Duke of Lancaster, His Majesty takes part in the centuries-old tradition of being presented with the keys of Lancaster Castle. This occurs at the John O'Gaunt gateway, the castle's entrance.

This tradition began in 1851, when Queen Victoria was presented with the keys to Lancaster Castle. The Ceremony of the Keys also serves to celebrate the communities of Lancashire.

The King's visit attracted many people living in Lancaster, including a large number of students. The crowd was largely comprised of supporters, excited to welcome King Charles III to the city. Hand-held union flags were dotted throughout the gathering, and as the King was driven up to the castle, those with such flags proudly waved them in support. His Majesty was driven up to the castle entrance around 10.30am, and the ceremony took place right in-front of the building, ensuring that the event was visible for many of those watching.

However, despite an generally positive reception, there was an anti-monarchist minority present, protesting the existence of the monarchy and the visit of King Charles. The group came with yellow signs, many of which had phrases like "not my king" printed on them. However, their chants were largely drowned out, as the overwhelming majority of the people present would offer cheers and singing of "God save the King."

Matthew Lamb, former vice-president of Lancaster University Politics Society, was in attendance at the ceremony. In a comment for this article, he stated: "It was great to do up my tie, put on a Royal Standard flag, and sing God save the King!"

To conclude, it was so great to witness this important event for the city.