Protesters waving signs saying ‘Not my King’ disrupted Charles’ visit to Milton Keynes today to mark its newly-granted city status.
The Buckinghamshire protest was organised by the group Republic, which advocates for an elected head of state and gathering around 20 protesters amongst the hundreds of well wishers this afternoon.
Videos from the scene of the King’s trip showed enthusiastic crowds cheering the King, with a few boos and jeers from anti-monarchy activists.
Charles was due to be joined by Queen Consort Camilla, but she was forced to pull out after testing positive for Covid.
At the walkabout today, a well-wisher presenting the King with flowers, wishing Camilla the best.
King Charles III arrives at the Church of Christ the Cornerstone in Milton Keynes to celebrate Milton Keynes’ new status as a city
Republic, a group which advocates for an elected head of state, is staging the protest in Buckinghamshire
King Charles III arrives at Church of Christ the Cornerstone for a reception with members of the local community and organisations on February 16
Republic wrote on Twitter today: ‘We’re off to Milton Keynes today, to ask the King some questions. You can join the protest at the Church of Christ Cornerstone.’
In a short video posted to Twitter, the King flanked by his imposing security detail. can be seen arriving at The Church of Christ the Cornerstone in Milton Keynes.
As he turns the corner, he is greeted by a large crowd of people – some waving British flags.
Waving to the crowd, the King approaches and begins shaking hands while some sing ‘God Save the King’.
At the back of the crowd, four people holding large yellow ‘Not My King’ signs can be seen.
Seemingly unbothered and neither acknowledging them or reacting to the message, the King completes his greetings and heads into the church.
The group behind the protest, Republic, had previously said they were concerned by the prospect of police harassment at Royal events.
Many children has been taken to the meet and greet to try and get close to the King
However others came down to hold signs reading ‘Not my King’
Speaking to the Express, a spokesman said: ‘Republic is concerned about recent police harassment of peaceful protesters at royal events.
‘We’re determined to get the message across that it’s ok to protest against the royals.
‘Instead of a pointless Coronation, we need a serious public debate.
‘We believe the British public should be asked, do you want Charles or a choice? The tide is starting to turn against the monarchy and we need a serious debate about its future.’
Reaction to the stunt on social media was lukewarm with many questioning the point of the protest.
One said: ‘Those protestors are so SAD.’
Another said: ‘Love his unbotheredness walking right up to the crowd with the “Not My King” signs to greet them!’
‘He’s an old pro.. that’s the way to deal with them’, said another.
There was massive excitement when King Charles’ royal car arrived
Many children sat on their parents shoulders to get a good view of the King
The King has come to Milton Keynes to attend a ceremony where it will obtain city status
Hundreds of people had gathered in the Union Jack covered car park to see the new King who took his time to meet as many people as he could.
It was a busy afternoon for the monarch that saw him presented with flowers by a well wisher who asked him if Camilla was ‘feeling better’.
The Queen Consort had tested positive for COVID-19 after suffering from cold symptoms and was forced to cancel a West Midlands visit.
In a sweet video, Charles can be seen graciously accepting the gift and exchanging a few words with the woman.
Reacting to joyful videos shared on social media, many praised the King’s people skills.
One said: ‘King Charles is getting wonderful reception wherever he goes.’
Another agreed: ‘King Charles is always a big deal. Love the energy in the crowds.’
Milton Keynes will officially be granted city status today in a ceremony attended by King Charles after it was granted new status in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last May.
The area is home to around 280,000 residents and had previously failed to become a city in 2000, 2002 and 2012.