His Majesty The King has confirmed his patronage of an award-winning Kent charity as it celebrates its 40th year.

King Charles has announced he will be continuing his role as patron of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, a role he first took up almost 20 years ago.

Then Prince of Wales, Charles first began his association with the trust when he visited the new Royal Dockyard Library in 2006, before becoming patron to the No.1 Smithery project in 2007.

His patronage was later extended to the wider work of the trust in 2013.

His Majesty last visited the Historic Dockyard, accompanied by the Lord-Lieutenant of Kent The Lady Colgrain, in February 2022 to show his support for the award-winning museum and heritage attraction as it prepared to reopen for the forthcoming visitor season.

Vice Patron of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust The Lady Colgrain said: “As Lord-Lieutenant of this great county, I am absolutely thrilled to learn that His Majesty The King has confirmed his commitment to the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust by continuing in his role as Patron.

“His Majesty has been an enthusiastic and dedicated supporter of the work of the Trust for many years and I am delighted that His Majesty wishes to retain his connection as the Trust looks forward to the future.”

Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust chair Admiral Sir Trevor Soar said: “It is a huge honour and a rather special 40th anniversary gift that His Majesty has chosen to retain the patronage of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust.

“Since assuming the role of patron in his position as HRH The Prince of Wales, His Majesty has taken significant interest in our work. During his most recent visit in 2022, I had the privilege of sharing the remarkable achievements the Trust has made over the past four decades, following the closure of the working dockyard.

“As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we look forward to sharing our continued success with His Majesty. We extend our congratulations on the first anniversary of Their Majesties’ Coronation.”