With a heartfelt message of support, King Charles highlighted the important role local journalism plays in society, especially in times of uncertainty.
He was speaking at a reception for local journalists at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, March 26th.
Among the guests were several journalists of sister titles across the NewsQuest network.
The King states: “For a long time I have believed that local media, in all forms, play a unique and important role to play in society.
“As I said in my speech to mark the UK's first daily national newspaper, Tersenchenary, in 2002, the press, alongside other long-standing institutions, is at the forefront of “defining, explaining and celebrating the deeper values of our country.”
“Twenty years from now, when too much focus is given to what divides us, the role of your industry as a whole is more important than ever – and it starts from scratch in your hands, at the local level.
“Your reporting, and the work of all those who support you, helps to amplify and reaffirm the rights and responsibilities we all share.
“More than anything, it helps to strengthen our community in moments of joy and sadness.
“You don't always do that right.
“Free media is what makes mistakes and does it.
“But at its best, it is the cornerstone of our democracy.
“We know how commercial pressures and changing technologies have had a huge impact on your industry.
“But as the media landscape has changed, many people have found ways to adopt and innovate, share journalism and attract viewers in new and creative ways.”
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