King Charles writes letter to Leeds to mark city's 400th anniversary
It's 400 years since Leeds was first granted a Royal Charter
The King has written a letter to the people of Leeds as the city celebrates its 400th anniversary.
Charles has called Leeds "an industrial, creative and cultural jewel of England" and says he's "heartened to see that this tireless work continues today"
The city was first given a Royal Charter, officially marking its cit status, by Charles I in 1626.
His Majesty wrote: “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.
"For more than four centuries Leeds has served as an industrial, creative and cultural jewel of England. From the oldest working railway to the filming of the first motion picture, Loiners have long strived for a prosperous future through shared resilience and enterprise.
“I am heartened to see that this tireless work continues today through the collaboration of your famous city’s many businesses, universities and hubs of art, research and hospitality.
“I remember fondly my most recent visit to Leeds, when I was fortunate to meet so many clever, hard-working and generous people in whose hands, I know, the future of Leeds, and indeed this great Nation, will continue to shine brightly. I was deeply touched by the warmth of the welcome and the optimism and civic pride of the local people.
“I know that this special occasion will be marked with the typical joviality of spirit for which old Leodis is known! My warmest wishes are with you all as you celebrate this important anniversary.”
The letter was read out by the HM Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Prof Adeeba Malik CBE during a service at Leeds Minster last week.