King Charles, who is a known advocate of protecting the environment and nature, had recently learned of his nephew Earl James of Wessex’s decision about his future.
Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s son will be going to the Royal Agricultural University to study Rural Land & Property Management and in the meantime, he has been working as a farmhand on the monarch’s Sandringham property.
It is understood that the King is proud of his nephew’s choices and it was reflected in his views that he expressed for farmers in a heartfelt written message read out at this years’ annual Cumbria Farmer Awards.
While Charles was not able to attend in person, he emphasised that his heart was with all those who suffered the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease 25 years ago.
The letter was read out by Maureen Hodges, farming & rural affairs editor at Newsquest, last Friday, for 260 attendees at the sixth Cumbria Farmer Award.
“Only many visits to Cumbria since those dark days, I have been touched by the resilience and optimism of the Cumbrian farming community as they rebuilt their lives, flocks and herds,” Charles wrote. “And I cannot tell you how honoured I was to receive the Cumbrian Farmer Special Recognition Award in 2021.”
He continued, “In return, as a great admirer of Cumbrian farmers, I much appreciate your message of loyal greetings. I send my warmest good wishes to all those who are present for a most memorable event.”
Before he became King, Charles was given the Special Recognition Award for his work as a tireless advocate for Cumbrian farming.
2026-08-17 14:51:00
