Kent MPs and dignitaries have sent their well wishes to King Charles after Buckingham Palace revealed he has been diagnosed with a form of cancer.

The illness was discovered during recent treatment for an enlarged prostate – although the type of cancer is not prostate cancer.

The palace has not revealed the type but 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."

Last month Charles, 75, underwent hospital treatment for an enlarged prostate.

The Palace described his condition as benign and released a statement, which said: "In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate.

"His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.

"The King's public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation."

The Palace said 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.

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

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

News of his diagnosis has led to an outpouring of support from a number of senior figures throughout the county.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Kent has wished him “all the best with his treatment and hope for a quick recovery.”

Meanwhile, Chatham and Aylesford MP, Tracey Crouch, who herself was diagnosed with cancer, said: “I wish the King a speedy journey through his cancer diagnosis and treatment, and thank him for going public and by doing so raising awareness about the importance of regular checks.”

MP for Tonbridge and Malling, Tom Tugendhat, added: “Many of us know the worry that a cancer diagnosis in the family brings.

“I wish the King a speedy recovery and his family the strength to support him.”

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.

The Duchess of York announced she was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer, in an Instagram message last month.

She said the melanoma was found after the removal of a cancerous mole whilst she was undergoing treatment for breast cancer last summer which was discovered during a routine mammogram.

She has already undergone a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery and was seen in good spirits with the royal famiy at Sandringham over Christmas.

Her spokesman said: "Her dermatologist asked that several moles were removed and analysed at the same time as the duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of these has been identified as cancerous.”

Catherine, Princess of Wales is currently recuperating at home after spending 13 nights in the same hospital as Charles following routine abdominal surgery.

Prince William is set to return to work on Wednesday having taken time off to support his wife and their three children, where he will conduct an investiture at Windsor Castle before attending a fundraising gala in London in the evening.

Prince Harry is also expected to return to the UK from his home in LA.