King Charles III has said acts of “the greatest compassion” can light up the “darkest moments of illness” as he continues to receive treatment for cancer.

The monarch, 76, on Wednesday hosted representatives from community based cancer groups and released a lengthy message of support.

He was diagnosed with cancer in January 2024 and began regular treatment early the following month, which he continues to receive more than one year on.

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.”

This is a developing story and will be updated.