Norfolk cancer support group says number of people at meeting "up by a third" after King's diagnosis
His Majesty has been widely praised for being open about his cancer diagnosis
A cancer support group in Norfolk says the number of people at their latest meeting was up by a third on last time - following news of the King's health troubles.
His Majesty has been widely praised for being so open about checks on an enlarged prostate, and a subsequent diagnosis of an unspecified form of cancer.
"If the King thinks it's important then it must be important to us"
John Ladd tell us that his announcement is having a positive impact:
"Normally we get about 20 people and several mentioned that it was the King's news that prompted them to come along. He's being really honest and it's obviously having an effect.
"There were new people coming along on that Monday evening, who wouldn't have normally come. I guess it gives those people the freedom to feel that if the King thinks it's important then it must be important to us"
"It will also encourage some people who have got symptoms to go and get them checked by their GP. That's the most important thing to do. But even if you haven't got symptoms- if you're over 50 and there's history of prostate issues in the family it's a good idea to get checked as well."
"He's been open and honest about his health"
John continued: "You may have an examination of your prostate but they tend to look at your whole body.
"I suppose it's the same with the King. They have found a cancer elsewhere in his body because he's been open and honest about his health.
"This tells us all to think about our own bodies.
"Things like having a weak flow of urine, stop and start peeing and having to go a lot in the night are signs that things aren't right."
Monday's announcement:
How have those across Norfolk been reacting?
Lord-Lieutant of Norfolk, Lady Dannatt said:
"All of us here in Norfolk are tonight deeply concerned to hear about the health of HM the King. We join in sending him our very best wishes for a speedy and successful outcome to his treatment.
"Here in this county, the Royal Family occupy a very special place in our hearts and we are thinking of, and praying for them all. We look forward to seeing King Charles and Queen Camilla returning to Sandringham just as soon as possible"