Peter Moore, head of Essex-based Radio Caroline, issued an apology on 20/5 after a computer error at its main studio accidentally triggered a pre-prepared protocol for a monarch's passing. This led to a false announcement that King Charles III had died on the afternoon of 19/5.

Moore explained that every radio station in the UK has such a procedure ready, though they hope never to use it. During the incident, Radio Caroline ceased broadcasting according to this protocol. The operations department only discovered the error when the station abruptly went silent, subsequently restoring programming and broadcasting a live apology.

"We apologize to the King and our listeners for any distress the incident may have caused," Moore stated.

King Charles III visits a hospital in London in 4/2024. Photo: AFP

The incident occurred while King Charles III and Queen Camilla were on a tour in Northern Ireland. Buckingham Palace confirmed the royal couple was in Belfast on 19/5 to participate in cultural activities.

During their visit, the King and Queen toured Thompson Dock, where the Titanic once berthed. They met artists and organizers preparing for a traditional Irish music festival scheduled for August. The royal couple also met the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland at Hillsborough Castle, a royal residence near Belfast.

Radio Caroline, established in 1964, has a history of broadcasting Christmas messages from the monarch, including Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III. The station, which broadcasts in many countries and offers online programming globally, expressed its hope to continue this tradition for many years to come.

Thanh Danh (According to CNN, Sky, Guardian)