King Charles has concluded his Christmas stay at Sandringham and made his way back to the capital, marking a departure from the practice followed by his late mother.
The Court Circular, the official public record of Royal Family engagements, featured an entry on January 5, showing that the monarch had returned to Clarence House in London.
It read: "Dr. Nathan Ross was received by The King this evening at Clarence House upon relinquishing his appointment as Assistant Private Secretary to His Majesty when The King invested him with the Insignia of a Member of the Royal Victorian Order."
In contrast, Queen Elizabeth II traditionally remained at her Norfolk residence until February 6 each year, the date marking the anniversary of her father King George VI's death.
King Charles breaks Queen Elizabeth's tradition as monarch leaves Sandringham early
|GETTY
Since ascending to the throne more than three years ago, the monarch has chosen to handle the post-Christmas period differently.
Just last Sunday, Charles and Queen Camilla attended worship at St Mary Magdalene Church near the Sandringham estate before their return to London.
On Monday evening, the King conducted official business at Clarence House, his official London home, where he met with Dr Nathan Ross.
The occasion marked Dr Ross's departure from his position as Assistant Private Secretary to His Majesty.
King Charles has returned to Clarence House in London
|COURT CIRCULAR
During the audience, Charles bestowed upon him the insignia of a Member of the Royal Victorian Order in recognition of his service.
Dr Ross had joined the monarch's household in 2023, having previously served as Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea before taking up his Palace role.
The Royal Victorian Order holds particular significance within the honours system, having been established by Queen Victoria in 1896.
Unlike other honours, it specifically recognises distinguished personal service to the sovereign and members of the Royal Family.
King Charles spotted photographers on his way to church in Norfolk last week
| PAThe award remains within the personal gift of the monarch, making it a direct acknowledgement of an individual's contribution to royal duties.
Dr Ross's background in diplomatic service, including his posting as Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, brought valuable experience to his role within the King's household during his tenure from 2023.
The King and Queen are anticipated to return to their public duties in the coming weeks, following their time hosting family members at Sandringham over the festive season.
Queen Camilla and King Charles stay in Clarence House when in London | PAThe couple may opt to spend time at Balmoral, as they did in January last year, where they often worship at Crathie Kirk near the castle.
Looking ahead, speculation suggests a state visit to Washington, DC could take place in April to commemorate 250 years of American independence.
Royal author Robert Jobson told Hello! that the trip, at President Trump's invitation, would be "another example of royal soft power diplomacy at its best."