King Charles III has become the patron of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), continuing a tradition held by reigning British monarchs since the charity's establishment in 1824. This role was previously held by his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. The announcement aligns with the RNLI's 200th anniversary and follows a comprehensive review of over 1,000 royal patronages by the Royal Household after the Queen's death.
RNLI Chief Executive, Mark Dowie, expressed pride in the King’s patronage, particularly significant during the charity's bicentenary. King Charles has had a long-standing relationship with the RNLI, beginning with his first official engagement in 1964. His recent visits include a trip to St Ives Lifeboat Station in Cornwall last year.
Next week, King Charles will host over 2,500 RNLI volunteers, staff, and their families at Buckingham Palace for a 200th-anniversary garden party. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations and around 240 lifeguard units across the UK and Ireland, having saved more than 146,000 lives since its inception.