Summer is traditionally a quieter time for the royals, with members of the family dispersing around the country to enjoy a break from their official duties.

Prince William and Princess Kate often head to Norfolk to enjoy family time with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, while King Charles and Queen Camilla prefer to spend their downtime in Balmoral, enjoying the cooler Scottish air – much like King Charles’ late mother, Queen Elizabeth, did.

Before going their separate ways, His Majesty King Charles took the opportunity to issue a message to the public, speaking about the ‘great pleasure’ he felt in July, as he marked the end of the Commonwealth Games.

Rather than a simple message, the King made light-hearted pop culture references in his statement, as well as including a nod to his passion for looking after the environment.

King Charles’ heartfelt message

As the games, which were held in Glasgow, came to a close, King Charles said: “My wife and I would like to extend our warmest thanks to all those who played a part in making the XXIII Commonwealth Games such a wonderful success.”

He continued: “It was a great pleasure to be able to open the Games as part of a magnificently executed ceremony celebrating Glasgow, Scotland and the enduring bonds of our

“You have worked tirelessly, with creativity, dedication and vigour, to deliver ten days of exhilarating sporting competition, along with cultural and artistic celebration.”

Showing his trademark sense of humour, His Royal Highness went on to mention Doctor Who, joking: “I know that the efforts such an endeavour demands from organisers, officials, volunteers and staff are – just like a certain blue telephone box – far larger than they may appear from the outside…”

As someone who is dedicated to the environment, the King made a nod to the eco-conscious efforts of the games, stating: “Developing and realising a climate-conscious, deliverable model for this year’s Games has been a significant achievement.”

He concluded: “The Games have served as a stage for outstanding athletic excellence, a joyful celebration of all that unites our Commonwealth nations and a powerful reminder of sport’s ability to bring nations and generations closer together.

“I send my heartfelt congratulations to all those competitors who were victorious, while hoping that each and every one of you who participated, or contributed, will look back on these Games with immense pride in what you have accomplished.”

King Charles’ happy week

His Royal Highness appears to be getting stuck into life in Scotland, where he’ll be spending his summer break.

Looking dapper in his kilt, King Charles attended the Mey Highland Games, watching a tug o’ war between a group of firefighters, as well as the stone put and the caber toss.

Never one to miss out on a tipple, the King also indulged in a dram of whiskey – it would be rude not to!