King Charles travels to Yorkshire for royal engagements close to his heart

The King travelled to Yorkshire today to learn about an innovative conservation scheme aimed at protecting Britain's native red squirrel population.During his visit to an Animal and Plant Health Agency facility, the King was introduced to scientists working on a pioneering approach to managing grey squirrel numbers through oral contraceptives.The project involves delivering the contraceptives via specially designed feeding stations, offering a humane alternative to traditional population control methods.APHA, which operates under the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, focuses on animal and plant welfare, food security, and wildlife management across the country. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Red squirrels, though native to Britain, have become endangered due to habitat destruction and competition from their grey counterparts.Researchers at the Yorkshire site have developed a targeted feeding system specifically designed to administer contraceptives to grey squirrels, thereby slowing their population growth.The initiative aims to give red squirrels a better chance of survival by reducing pressure from the more dominant grey species.Extensive trials in the field have informed the development of these specialist feeding devices, ensuring the programme remains both effective and humane in its approach to wildlife management.King Charles subsequently made his way to York Hospital, where he toured the newly refurbished Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Centre in his capacity as Patron of Macmillan Cancer Support, a role he has held since 1997.The monarch was accompanied by Clare Smith, York Hospital's Chief Executive, and Gemma Peters, who leads Macmillan Cancer Support.More than 70 local residents who have experienced cancer contributed to the centre's design, influencing everything from room layouts and furniture choices to colour schemes and available services.King Charles explored the centre's new garden, conceived as a tranquil space where visitors can connect with nature during their time at the facility.The King met with the centre's designer and spoke with patients who had been involved in selecting artwork for display throughout the completed facility.York Hospital serves as the base for more than 60 Macmillan professionals, including over 40 cancer nurse specialists and support officers who assist thousands of regional cancer patients annually.The original centre, which first opened its doors in 1997, has helped tens of thousands of people affected by cancer across Yorkshire over nearly three decades.A multimillion pound expansion is currently underway to address increasing demand for services in the region.Before departing, the King planted a Macmillan Rose in the cancer centre's garden. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter