The King has paid tribute to the crucial role of the local media ahead of a reception to show support for local journalism.

The event, which was attended by the Society of Editors alongside 400 guests from various UK news organisations, was held at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday 26 March 2025 and attended by the King and Queen.

In a statement issued ahead of the reception, King Charles paid tribute to the crucial role that local journalists play, at a time when, “too much focus is given to that which divides us” he said.

He added: “I have long believed that regional media, in all its forms, has a unique and vital role to play in society, perhaps even more so in these uncertain times.

“As I said in a speech to mark the tercentenary of Britain’s first daily national newspaper, back in 2002, the Press, alongside other long-standing institutions, is at the forefront of ‘defining, describing and celebrating the more profound values of our nation’.

“Two decades on, when too much focus is given to that which divides us, that role for your whole industry is more important than ever – and it starts from the ground-up, at local level, in your hands.”

The reception, which was attended by journalists, editors, news editors and technical media staff, also saw the King highlight the role of the media in “exposing injustice and wrongdoing.

He added: “Your reporting, and the work of all those who support you, helps amplify and reaffirm the rights and responsibilities we all share.

“It shines a light in dark corners, exposing injustice and wrongdoing. Above all, it helps strengthen our communities, in times of joy and at moments of sorrow.”

“You won’t always get it right. A free media is one that will and does make mistakes. But at its best, it is a cornerstone of our democracy.

“I know how commercial pressures and changing technologies have had a significant impact on your industry.

“But as the media landscape has changed, so too many of you have adapted and innovated, finding ways of sharing your journalism and engaging audiences in new and creative ways.

“It is in everyone’s interests that you should succeed.

“For without a thriving and financially robust regional media, we would all be the poorer.”

Photo: Society of Editors Director Dawn Alford with Queen Camilla at the reception, Aaron Chown, PA Media