King Charles honors late mother in touching tribute before major celebrations

King Charles is scheduled to join other members of the royal family next week to commemorate what would have been the late Queen's 100th birthday. 

In advance of the celebrations, the king is set to become the patron of a new charity that pays tribute to her legacy.

It was announced on Saturday that Charles will serve as the patron of the Queen Elizabeth Trust, which is slated to launch on Tuesday as a series of initiatives celebrating her life. 

The organisation will grant funds to communities throughout the United Kingdom to enhance and rejuvenate shared spaces. 

The charity will also provide skills training to those organising local activities.

The UK government has pledged a one-time £40 million donation to assist the charity in its initial phase. 

Potential projects could involve improving underutilized buildings, green areas, and community centers nationwide.

The charity took two years to develop, with the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee consulting various groups to shape its direction.

Two additional initiatives to honor Her Late Majesty include a National Memorial landmark to be situated in St James's Park, as well as a Digital Memorial celebrating her life. More information about these projects and the charity will be revealed on Tuesday.

Sir Damon Buffini, the chair of the Queen Elizabeth Trust, remarked: "I'm honored and thrilled to be chosen as the founding Chair of the Queen Elizabeth Trust, helping to set its course from the beginning. 

This offers a real opportunity to empower communities across the United Kingdom and revitalise shared areas: places where people of all ages and backgrounds can meet, connect, and feel a sense of belonging.

The late Queen would have reached her 100th birthday on Tuesday, and celebrations will take place to honor this significant milestone. 

Charles is reported to have prepared a speech for the occasion, reflecting on his late mother's 70-year reign and emphasising her legacy and contribution.

The royal family will convene for a reception at Buckingham Palace on what would have been Elizabeth’s birthday. 

Charities and organisations with ties to the late Queen, including Cancer Research UK, the Jockey Club, and the Army Benevolent Fund, are set to attend.

The gathering will also include some of the UK's oldest citizens who share their 100th birthday with the late Queen, and the King will personally deliver their centenary cards.