King Meets Local Volunteers at Ealing Christmas Market


Crowds delighted to see Charles in the Broadway Shopping Centre

The King at Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre
The King at Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre. Picture: @royalfamily

December 12, 2023

People doing their Christmas shopping in Ealing this Thursday (7 December) had an extra bonus with the appearance of King Charles.

His Majesty was visiting the Ealing Broadway Christmas Market, where he met local business owners and spoke to recipients of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) formerly The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).

He was hreeted by school children from Christ The Saviour COE Primary School singing festive carols.

The King chatted to recipients of The KAVS who had put together displays to explain about their work. Created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, the Award aims to shine a light on the fantastic work of voluntary groups from across the UK. Equivalent to an MBE, it is the highest Award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and they are awarded for life.

King appears to be on Santa's 'nice-list' this yearKing appears to be on Santa's 'nice-list' this year. Picture: @royalfamily

The King then toured Ealing Broadway's Christmas Market, where he met stall holders at the market. For the eighth year running, the Christmas Market has returned to the town square, offering a host of handmade gifts, crafts, and decorations. A dedicated Community Hut at the market is also welcoming 15 local charities and community groups.

The King’s mother Queen Elizabeth II had officially opened the shopping centre on 7 March 1985 and it is now attracting an annual 13 million footfall.

Queen Elizabeth II opens Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre in 1985
Queen Elizabeth II opens Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre in 1985. Picture: @royalfamily

The local community has been donating to Ealing Broadway’s partner charities: Ealing Food Bank and the Young Ealing Foundation. Additionally, 907 coats have been donated to vulnerable Londoners thanks to the Winter Coat campaign.

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