Lancastrians invited to celebrate the Kings Coronation
People across the county are setting off to London this weekend
The Coronation of King Charles III is just three days away and the lucky few people across Lancashire to be invited are staring to make their way down to the capital.
Among them is Pastor Mick Fleming who is a converted criminal who now runs a charity in Burnley.
Since 2013, Pastor Mick has been bringing church to the streets of Manchester and Burnley, starting outside McDonald's with his suitcase of sandwiches and clothes. His involvement in drug dealing was a way out of poverty, but after a sign from God, he turned his life around, studied theology, and prioritized helping others.
He returned to McDonald's to help those in poverty, and Church on the Street was born.
The charity describes itself as:
"A one-size-fits-all charity and church, standing in the gaps of society to help those in need. Always changing and evolving, we’re a brew and a chat at The Hub. A church where everyone’s welcome. A place for recovery. A fight for change."
Upon receiving his invitation Pastor Mick told us:
"It's just like, what?
"It was really bizarre, from my background of crime and criminality, to be invited to Buckingham Palace is just bit mind blowing really.
"We've been invited because of the work we do, helping people with addiction, people who're homeless, old people, young people, you know, we're trying to break this poverty trap."
A statement on the Royals official website reads:
"The Coronation Service will take place on the morning of Saturday, 6th May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. The Coronation is a solemn religious service, as well as an occasion for celebration and pageantry.
"Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.
"After the Service, Their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace in a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession’. Their Majesties will be joined in this procession by other Members of the Royal Family.
"At Buckingham Palace, The King and The Queen Consort, accompanied by Members of the Royal Family, will appear on the balcony to conclude the day’s ceremonial events.