Man arrested after eggs were thrown at King and Queen Consort in York is released on bail
North Yorkshire police said it had arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of a public order offence after the incident on Wednesday.
Thursday 10 November 2022 12:55, UK
A man who was arrested after eggs were thrown at King Charles and the Queen Consort on their royal visit to York has been released on bail.
North Yorkshire police said it had arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of a public order offence after the incident on Wednesday.
Local dignitaries had been welcoming Charles and Camilla to the city when a protester started booing the pair before four eggs were thrown at them.
Officers said a "well-rehearsed" security operation had been in place for the visit to ensure the royal couple's safety.
The projectiles narrowly missed the King as the royals greeted people on the city's Micklegate Bar.
People in the crowd booed and shouted "God save the King" and "shame on you".
As the eggs were being thrown, a suited protection officer positioned himself next to the King and briefly held his shoulder.
The protester was heard shouting "this country was built on the blood of slaves" as he was detained.
The King nearly stepped in one of the eggs but appeared unruffled and continued walking.
The suspect was carried away by officers in handcuffs with his legs bound and put in the back of a police van.
Officers interviewed the man before he was released on police bail, the force said.
The royal couple's visit was part of a traditional ceremony in which the monarch is officially welcomed to York by the Lord Mayor.
It was last carried out by the Queen in 2012.
Incident highlights the 'jeopardy' of walkabouts
To me this highlights the jeopardy that has always existed for the close protection officers who look after Charles and Camilla.
The King and Queen Consort both see meeting the people as an important part of connecting with them.
I've seen them go walkabout in the most crowded and confined spaces all over the world - partly because they love it, but also because they have police officers around them, some of whom have worked with them for a while, and who know how their royal principals like to work.
And until now it's not been a problem.
The King's new role - since the Queen died - has not stopped his desire to get up close.
We have seen lots of people getting very close - even touching and kissing him in a way you did not see with the Queen.
Charles and Camilla appeared unfazed as they continued on their walkabout and greeted some of the crowds.
They had been embarking on their second day of a two-day visit to Yorkshire for a number of engagements, including the unveiling of a statue of Queen Elizabeth II, the first to be installed since her death.
Speaking at the ceremony, Charles said: "The late Queen was always vigilant for the welfare of her people during her life.
"Now her image will watch over what will become Queen Elizabeth Square for centuries to come."