Coronation postbox returned to its original red after protests
The box was defaced after being painted by Royal Mail ahead of the coronation.
Last updated 11th May 2023
A special Coronation postbox decorated in red, white and blue has been painted back to its original colour after being targeted by anti-monarchists.
The box defaced after being painted by Royal Mail ahead of the coronation was right outside the Owain Glyndŵr pub in Cardiff - named after the last native Prince of Wales.
Republicans covered the postbox with Welsh independence stickers within hours of it being unveiled - and continued to do so despite repeated clean ups.
The box was due to be just one of four in the UK to "leave a lasting Royal legacy" with its different colouring.
But Royal Mail chiefs have now reverted the box back to its original red after workmen were seen painting it on Wednesday morning.
Putting the King Charles celebration box where it is has been described as an "insult" and "kick in the teeth" by nationalists.
Glyndŵr, who died in 1415, is viewed by many as a Welsh hero who liberated his people.
He was a Welsh leader, soldier and military commander of a 15-year-long revolt with the aim of ending English rule in Wales. He was even in Shakespears play Henry IV.
The unveiling of the postbox outraged Welsh nationalists. One social media user commented: "So very insensitive".
While another said: "Did they seriously put the coronation postbox next door to the Owain Glyndwr."
Another said: “I’ll try not to let my dog cock his leg up on it.”
A sticker from CPD Cefn Hengoed Gweriniaeth Cymru (Republic of Wales) appeared on the Royal Mail postbox just hours after it was unveiled.
And more from Yes Cymru, Wrexham Lager and Welsh Football Fans for Independence were also placed on the box to cover the coronation emblem.
Matt Skinner, a DJ and supporter of the Yes Cymru independence movement, hit out at the postbox placing saying it was "a bit of a kick in the teeth".
He added: "For them to place this right outside the Owain Glyndwr pub, someone who people with similar views to myself regard as the last true Prince of Wales, is disrespectful.
"Whether it's been done unintentionally, we probably won't find out, but they can't change it now as it will look like they knew what they were doing and were hoping not to cause issues."
Ahead of the unveiling, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said: “The coronation of Charles III is going to be a huge historic moment for the UK and one that will be celebrated with a weekend packed with different ways for people to get involved.
“Our postboxes are recognised the world over as an iconic symbol of Britain and these four iconic unique coronation postboxes will leave a lasting royal legacy in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Royal Hillsborough.”