PEOPLE in Bradford have been expressing their shock tonight after Buckingham Palace announced the King has been diagnosed with a form of cancer.

The Palace confirmed the disease, which is not prostate cancer, was discovered while the King was being treated in hospital for an enlarged prostate.

The King has started a schedule of regular treatments, but has been advised to postpone his public-facing duties.

The Palace declined to confirm the type of cancer.

He will carry on working behind the scenes on state business and official papers, and returned from Sandringham to London on Monday to commence treatment as an out-patient.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Imran Khan works on the jacket for the King at his shop in BradfordImran Khan works on the jacket for the King at his shop in Bradford (Image: Newsquest)

Imran Khan, owner of IK Collections based on Westgate, met King Charles during his visit to Bradford in 2022. 

He said: "I'm really devastated by the news tonight. 

"I'm just so shocked.

"Many people young and old - including people I work with - have also contacted me to say how sad they are.

"It goes without saying all our thoughts are with the King and his family at this difficult time.

"We hope he'll make a full recovery and be fighting fit again soon.

"When I met him and spoke to him during his visit to Bradford, it was like I'd known him forever.

"He's a wonderful person and we all say get well soon, King Charles."

Tong ward Councillor Matt Edwards, leader of the Green Party on Bradford Council, said: "I wish King Charles and his family well in this time and I wish him a speedy recovery.

"I think it is testament to him that he has shared this to encourage other men to get themselves checked.

"I hope people take that advice."

People have also been expressing their shock on the Telegraph & Argus' Facebook page - and wished the King well.

Mohammad Yaqoob said: "Wishing our King Charles a speedy recovery."

Marybeth Khan said: "Sad news for him and his loved ones."

Andrew Gray commented: "Get well soon, sir."

Buckingham Palace statement

Buckingham Palace said in a statement: "During the King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted.

"Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties.

"Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake state business and official paperwork as usual.

"The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.

"He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.

"His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer."

Charles, 75, was discharged from the London Clinic a week ago after undergoing treatment on an enlarged prostate.

The shock news is the latest health scare to hit the royal family at the start of 2024 - coming after the King's hospital stay, the Princess of Wales's major abdominal surgery and Sarah, Duchess of York's diagnosis of skin cancer.

Buckingham Palace announced on January 16 that the King was to have treatment for an enlarged prostate, but that the condition was benign.

The Palace announced the King's cancer diagnosis at 6pm on Monday.

Charles, who acceded to the throne just 17 months ago, was last seen on Sunday when he attended church in Sandringham.