Guernsey to get public holiday for King's visit

King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Guernsey on 16 July

The States of Guernsey has approved an additional public holiday to mark the visit of King Charles III in July.

The King and Queen Camilla will visit the Bailiwick on 16 July. It is his first visit as King, and first to the bailiwick since 2012.

Economic Development bosses said the holiday recognised "the historic significance" of the King's visit and "importance of Guernsey’s constitutional relationship as a Crown dependency".

It said the holiday fitted in with "the tradition of holding a public holiday for the visits by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, dating back to 1957".

Neil Inder, President of Economic Development, recognised the decision came "at short notice for some", including employers.

Mr Inder said: "Most of all, I hope the public holiday will afford as many people as possible the opportunity to come out to see Their Majesties while they are here."

The Government of Jersey has also proposed a public holiday to mark the visit on 15 July.

Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham said the proposal would "enable as many islanders as possible to enjoy the day".