THE King has shown his support for journalism, calling it a “cornerstone of our democracy”.

Charles yesterday told local reporters, editors and technical operators that they had a vital role to play in society.

He said at Buckingham Palace: “That role for your whole industry is now more important than ever.”

The King, 76, who has been an Honorary Life Member of the London Press Club since 1978, added: “You won’t always get it right. A free media is one that will and does make mistakes.

“But at its best, it is a cornerstone of our democracy.”

The King and Queen hosted 400 guests from UK news organisations yesterday at the Palace to offer their support for local journalism.

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Queen Camilla is also a patron of The Journalists’ Charity, as well as The Guild of St Bride’s — known as the journalists’ church — in Fleet Street.

Charles acknowledged the media landscape was being disrupted by changing technologies.

But he told the attendees: “Your reporting helps amplify and reaffirm the rights and responsibilities we all share.

“It shines a light in dark corners, exposing injustice.”

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He added: “Above all, it helps strengthen our communities, in times of joy and at moments of sorrow.

“It is in everyone’s interests that you should succeed. For without a thriving and financially robust regional media, we would all be the poorer.”

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