LONDON: King Charles III has congratulated the city of Leeds on the 400th anniversary of receiving its Royal Charter, praising its rich industrial, cultural and creative heritage in a personal message read during anniversary celebrations.
The message was delivered as Leeds commemorated the charter granted by King Charles I on July 13, 1626, marking four centuries of the city’s development.
“On the occasion of the 400th anniversary of Leeds receiving its Royal Charter, The Queen and I extend our most heartfelt congratulations to you all,” Charles said in the letter.
The monarch described Leeds as “an industrial, creative and cultural jewel of England,” highlighting its contributions to innovation, including its historic railway heritage and early achievements in filmmaking. He also praised the city’s thriving businesses, universities and centers for arts, research and hospitality.
Reflecting on his most recent visit, Charles said he was deeply moved by the warm welcome he received and the optimism and civic pride shown by local residents.
“I know that this special occasion will be marked with the typical joviality of spirit for which old Leodis is known,” the King wrote, extending his best wishes to the people of Leeds as they celebrated the milestone.
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Note: The source material’s opening claim that King Charles wrote the message after a meeting with his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, is not supported by the contents of the letter or the information provided. Therefore, it has not been included as fact in this report.
