His Majesty continues Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring legacy at Westminster Abbey
King Charles has honoured one of Britain’s most time-honoured traditions with a message of gratitude marking the annual National Harvest Service.
On Thursday, October 16, His Majesty shared a touching statement celebrating the service held at Westminster Abbey — an event that recognises the dedication of those who work tirelessly to produce the nation’s food.
“Today is a most wonderful way to celebrate our Lord’s bounty through this year’s National Harvest Service in the magnificent setting of Westminster Abbey,” the King said.
The 76-year-old monarch reflected on the meaning of the centuries-old observance, adding, “It is a time of year to give thanks to the custodians of our land in a tradition that stretches back centuries, yet remains ever relevant. Their labour is the foundation of our food production, the heartbeat of rural communities and vital to the protection of the natural landscapes we all treasure so dearly.”
The National Harvest Service was first introduced by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2013, when she was still the Duchess of Cornwall. The inaugural ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey and has since been hosted in different regions across the UK each year.
The celebration coincides with British Food Fortnight, which runs from September 26 to October 12. During this period, a symbolic Harvest Torch is passed from city to city — much like the Olympic Torch — spreading a message of gratitude and unity. To date, it has travelled from Westminster Abbey to Birmingham, Canterbury, Lincoln, Pembrokeshire, Ely, Chelmsford, Wells and the villages of Somerset.
