KING WANTS CORONATION TO BRING JOY

Charles hopes big weekend will lift and unite the nation in tough times | Harry’s welcome... but faces ‘chilly reception’

- Jon Coates and Mike Parker

THE KING wants his Coronation to unite the nation and lift the gloom caused by the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis. 

Charles is said to view the three days of events – new details of which were unveiled last night – as an opportunity to bring joy, and some respite from the austerity gripping Britain.

A Buckingham Palace source said: “His Majesty understands people are going through some very tough times and wants to do what he can to lift the nation.

“He knows people are struggling and hopes they will get involved and celebrate in their own way.”

It is understood the Monarch, 74, is keen for his younger son Harry to be on the guest list, but it is still not clear whether this will be possible.

Two major US TV networks are said to be trying to lure the Prince away with a mega-bucks deal to host their event coverage.

They are preparing multimillion-dollar offers for him to join their commentary teams if he decides not to attend the Coronation, according to highly placed studio sources.

The three days of events being planned from May 6 will be on a par with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last June.

Charles and Camilla will be crowned King and Queen during a service at Westminster Abbey on the Saturday, followed by a procession to Buckingham Palace where they will appear on the balcony with family members.