Boos from anti-royal protesters at castle

BOOS from anti-monarchy protesters could be heard over the hundreds of cheering well-wishers who greeted the King and Queen Consort at Cardiff Castle.

Around 40 demonstrators gathered outside the castle walls yesterday with banners displaying messages such as “Abolish the Monarchy” and “Democracy Now”.

Some protesters held giant Owain Glyndwr flags as the visit fell on the day that celebrates the legacy of the rebel who is considered to be the last nativewelsh Prince of Wales.

Many wore T-shirts bearing the words “Yes Cymru” – the slogan of independence campaigners.

Although it was meant to be a silent protest by a number of groups under the banner Real Democracy Now, the rally also at times broke into song led by members of the Cor Cochion, a socialist choir based in Cardiff.

Campaigners, led by former Senedd member Bethan Sayed, said they want the Welsh public to consider whether a future without the monarchy is possible.

A petition calling for the end of the use of the Prince of Wales title by the British monarchy has gathered almost 30,000 signatures in a week.

Protestor Andrew Davies said: “I believe we should have a democratically elected head of state and not a monarchy.”

Asked his view on criticisms protesters had chosen the wrong time to have a debate about the existence of a monarchy in Britain, he continued: “What better time than when the King is here? When else am I going to protest than when royals are around?

“I’ve been a republican for as long as I can remember, I’ve just never had the opportunity to do something like this before. Most people who have spoken to me have been supportive and said they like the sign. I’ve had a few who disagree with me too, but that’s what living in Britain is about. Undoubtedly the majority of people support the monarchy. I’m in a very small minority. That doesn’t bother me. It’s a start.”

Nick Wall, of Republic, said: “I’m a democrat, so I’m against power without any accountability. If you’re a democrat I think you must be against the monarchy because this is the complete opposite.

“We’re in a period of mourning and I completely understand that, but it wasn’t republicans who started a political debate about this, that debate was started by the Palace, who started a succession process before the Queen was even buried. I think that’s a disgrace.”

On Prince William’s new appointment as Prince of Wales, Mr Wall said: “In Wales we’re big enough and strong enough to look after ourselves. Nearly 30% of Wales now want to see a republic. Why wouldn’t you?”