KING 'POSITIVE' ABOUT RETURN TO FULL DUTIES

THE King is feeling "positive" as he gears up for a return to full duties next year after his cancer battle.

- Emily Ferguson

Charles, 76, who joked about how he is "still alive" yesterday, is energised to do his duty and travel the world promoting Britain.

He is continuing treatment but Palace officials are optimistic his prognosis is heading in a "very positive direction".

A source said: "The intention is for the monarch to return to a full programme of duties next year.

"Planning for the first half of the year involves an exciting mix of national and international events." His Majesty is said to be thoroughly looking forward to a brighter and busier 2025, having thrown himself into work in the lead-up to Christmas.

This month he hosted a state visit, conducted seven royal engagements, two investiture ceremonies, held two Privy Council meetings and dozens of audiences.

All this while continuing constitutional duties such as meeting with the Prime Minister and going through his state red boxes.

But Charles is said to want to keep busy, spend time with the public and show the nation he is well and looking to the future.

Dickie Arbiter, who served as the late Queen's press spokesman from 1998 to 2000, hailed the King's determination to be seen throughout his cancer ordeal.

He said that while it had been proposed that the sovereign should discreetly travel for his treatment, Charles insisted he went in the state Bentley.

The former communications secretary added that this year has been about showing it's "business as usual" something that courtiers will build on next year.

Mr Arbiter said: "The takeaway from 2024 is business as usual, carry on as normal. We're not going anywhere. We are well. We're dealing with a problem. It's not going to go away.