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Britain's King Charles says PSNI 'owed an enormous debt of gratitude'

King Charles and Queen Camilla began their visit to Northern Ireland in Belfast
King Charles and Queen Camilla began their visit to Northern Ireland in Belfast

Britain's King Charles has paid tribute to police during his visit to Belfast, describing how they are "owed an enormous debt of gratitude".

He visited the Newforge sports complex in Belfast during his visit to Northern Ireland.

It is home to the Police Service of Northern Ireland's (PSNI) athletic association, as well as a number of the force's sports and social clubs.

King Charles pictured during his visit to Newforge sports and event complex

Charles was greeted by Stormont Justice Minister Naomi Long and PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher before taking in a showcase of sport drills, including rugby, football, hockey and Gaelic games.

He also met PSNI representatives and presented an award to the force's peer support and wellbeing volunteers.

King Charles gave an impromptu speech thanking the officers for the work they do to protect the public.

He said he had "enjoyed enormously" the chance to meet with some of them, adding: "I particularly wanted to say just how greatly I admire the way in which you deal, all of you, with so many different challenges that I know you have to face.

King Charles thanked police officers for the work they do to protect the public

"You are the thin green line which makes such an enormous difference to keeping so many people safe.

"The fact that you're prepared to do all this, and that somehow your families understand and give you such support is the remarkable thing.

"I just wanted you to know that we owe you collectively an enormous debt of gratitude which can never really be paid enough. I certainly don't take for granted what you all do by any means, and my admiration knows no bounds for you all."

King Charles and Queen Camilla began their visit to Northern Ireland by meeting creatives at the Commercial Court in the heart of Belfast.

They were greeted by Lord Mayor Micky Murray, High Sheriff Fiona McAteer and Belfast North MP John Finucane.

Serenaded by the music of The Causeway Shantymen, they spoke to the makers of the multicoloured electric umbrellas and signs that decorate the Commercial Court and walking tour guides.

The Causeway Shantymen perform for King Charles III and Queen Camilla in Commercial Court

They greeted members of the public who had gathered to see them, before visiting the Sea Holly Gallery.

The royal couple viewed an exhibition by artist Ciaran Gallagher, who has painted figures from the local community including chefs, window washers, police officers and street performers.

Hillas Smith - whose performing name is Mr H - and Timmy as Igor, performed a quick trick for Charles and Camilla in front of the painting Mr Gallagher had done.

"He was asking us, 'what is it you actually do' and I said, 'well, a bit of everything, you know yourself' and he said, 'no I certainly do'," Mr Smith said.

Queen Camilla and King Charles visit Commercial Court in Belfast

Chris McNevison, of Sign Craft, said the royals were "really interested in what we had done".

He said: "[It was] very humbling to see him come down our own Commercial Court there, the heart of the Cathedral Quarter.

"This street has just become so iconic and symbolic of what we have in Belfast, the sort of talent and creativity that's here.

"It's certainly a day to remember."