This Christmas, BBC Radio 4 will offer listeners a festive treat – an conversation with The King in a special edition of This Natural Life, airing on 23rd December at 12pm and repeated on Christmas Day. Hosted by presenter Martha Kearney, this special edition of the programme will take place at Dumfries House in Ayrshire, the home of The King’s Foundation.
Charles will join a host of famous individuals who have previously spoken on the programme including Cate Blanchett, Sir Antony Gormley, scientists, nature writers, and comedians, each choosing a landscape that holds personal meaning.
Against the backdrop of the estate’s arboretum, The King will reflect on his lifelong passion for nature, sharing personal memories of how his love for the natural world began in childhood.
During the broadcast, listeners will hear The King discuss a wide range of topics close to his heart, including the importance of teaching rural skills to younger generations, marine conservation and protecting fragile ecosystems and the artistry of topiary, something that His Majesty has incorporated into the gardens at Sandringham.
Martha Kearney will also speak to young people, students and education staff involved in outdoor programmes at Dumfries House, highlighting how the estate has become a hub for environmental education and sustainability.
Presenter Martha Kearney said “It was great to see The King so relaxed in a place which means so much to him and where he puts his philosophy of nature into practice.”
CEO of The King’s Foundation, Kristina Murrin CBE, said: “The King has had a profound impact on the Dumfries House estate since saving it for the nation in 2007. Thanks to him and the team at The King’s Foundation, it has become the thriving green space and education campus that it is today. We are delighted to share the story of Dumfries House in The King’s words with Radio 4 listeners this Christmas.”