King Charles has issued a new heartfelt message about his cancer journey as he joins Queen Camilla at a Buckingham Palace reception this evening. The statement has been printed in a booklet for guests attending the event and pays tribute to the "community of care" that "sustains patients through the most difficult of times".

Interestingly, the news of the new message was released at 6pm for a very important reason. Throughout history, consideration has often been given to the timing of major royal announcements so they could coincide with news broadcasts or newspaper publication times - such as the BBC News at Six.

This evening media organisations were given the news with a 6pm embargo, meaning it couldn't be shared before then but allowing them a few minutes to prepare stories or television broadcasts.

The King's new message has been released to recognise and celebrate the people around the world who work tirelessly to support those who are diagnosed with cancer.

Writing in his message to guests, the King said: "Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity.

"It has certainly given me an even deeper appreciation of the extraordinary work undertaken by the remarkable organisations and individuals gathered here this evening, many of whom I have known, visited and supported over the years. And it has reinforced what I have long observed during these visits - that the darkest moments of illness can be illuminated by the greatest compassion.

"As patrons of many such organisations, The Queen and I have seen at first-hand how you not only fund vital research and deliver exceptional healthcare but also create spaces where patients and their families find sanctuary, understanding and practical assistance when they need it most."

The evening's reception will see the King and Queen learn about the practical work which is delivered by Move Dance Feel, an intiative which unites women affected by cancer through dance, Rainbow Boxes, which offers practical items as people start cancer treatment, and Wigs for Heroes, which supports people undergoing cancer treatment.

Their Majesties will also meet representatives of Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now, Maggie’s, and Children’s Hospice South West.

They will then have the opportunity to watch a short performance by the ITV Change + Check Choir. The Choir is made up of 26 women who all spotted their breast cancer symptoms after seeing the awareness campaign on Lorraine Kelly's ITV1 programme Lorraine.