The station’s “Death of a Monarch” program, which all UK stations are prepared to carry out when a member of the royal family dies, was unexpectedly activated.
WASHINGTON — A British radio station has apologized for incorrectly announcing the death of King Charles III.
Radio Caroline issued a statement on Wednesday, said a computer error led to the false announcement on Tuesday. The station’s “Death of a Monarch” program, which all UK stations are prepared to carry out when a member of the royal family dies, was unexpectedly activated.
As part of the procedure, the radio station was asked to remain silent. The station said silent airwaves alerted them to the error, prompting an on-air apology.
“Caroline is delighted to be broadcasting Her Majesty the Queen’s Christmas Message and now His Majesty the King’s Christmas Message, and we hope to be able to do so for many years to come,” the network said in an apology.
“We apologize to His Majesty the King and our listeners for any distress caused,” station manager Peter Moore said.
Tuesday’s show replay missing 1:58 pm to 5 pm local time.
King Charles and Queen Camilla are on a three-day trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland, the Guardian reports. Calendar of royal events.
During his visit, the king was impressed by a seagull that splashed onto his jacket from above.
According to Erin Martin, “Well, it didn’t fall on my head.” Eileen Martin witnessed the incident and met the calm king shortly afterwards.
“Being hit by a seagull is supposed to be good luck,” Martin said.
Earlier in the day, during a visit to a food pantry, the king seemed to foreshadow his fate when he picked up a roll of toilet paper and said: “Very important.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
