King Charles has praised Anguilla’s environmental leadership in a letter sent to Governor Julia Crouch ahead of Anguilla Day.
In the short correspondence, he said he and Queen Camilla were delighted to extend their warmest congratulations to Premier Cora Richardson Hodge and the people of Anguilla.
“I cherish greatly the strong ties between us and know that we will continue working together on important climate change and environmental issues,” he said.
He recalled fondly his visit to the island as a young naval officer aboard HMS Minerva, where he said he was “astounded by the natural beauty of the island”.
The king commended Anguilla’s commitment to sustainable development and safeguarding its marine environment, noting that small island communities can play a leading role on global issues.
He also encouraged Anguillians to take time on Anguilla Day to honour those who serve the community, particularly in the public and voluntary sectors, and emergency services.
He closed the message with best wishes from both himself and the Queen for the year ahead, signing it ‘Charles R’.
Anguilla Day, celebrated on 30 May, marks the island’s 1967 revolution when Anguillians expelled the St Kitts police force and began their push for self-governance.
It is commemorated with patriotic celebrations, parades and boat races that honour the island’s struggle for autonomy.
