Queen says King is ‘fine’ ahead of procedure
THE Queen has confirmed that the King is “fine” as he prepares to undergo hospital treatment for an enlarged prostate.
Her Majesty, 76, was asked after his well-being as she carried out engagements in Swindon yesterday.
During a walkout outside Deacon & Sons jewellery shop, she told local resident Jessie Jackson, 86, her husband was “fine” and thanked her for asking.
Outside the jewellery shop, the Queen was handed cards from children wishing the King a speedy recovery.
She also visited a women’s refuge in Swindon, where she met abuse victims and praised staff for “brilliant” work.
The engagement marked the 50th anniversary of the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS).
“I’ve visited a lot of refuges over the years but I can see there’s something very special here,” the Queen said.
“You are doing such a wonderful job in so many walks of life. You seem to be getting into everywhere, which is what is needed.
“It’s not just looking after victims and the children, it’s getting into schools and teaching young people, teaching them respect.” The Queen expressed a hope that in the next 50 years, “who knows, we might be able to end this horrific abuse”.
SDASS, which was founded in 1974 as Swindon Women’s Aid, offers one of the few purpose-built refuges in the UK that boasts fully self-contained accommodation.
The Queen, who has campaigned for many years on behalf of domestic abuse charities, met staff, volunteers, families and partner agencies such as Wiltshire Police and Swindon borough council at the refuge.
She was introduced to Nicky Alberry, the charity’s chair of trustees, and Joanna Eamey, its chief executive, and was also greeted by her close friend Sarah Troughton, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire.
The visit came as the King prepared to be admitted to hospital for an overnight stay as he undergoes a “corrective procedure” on his enlarged prostate.
The Queen revealed during an official engagement last Thursday that he was looking forward to getting back to work.