King Charles’s Security Team Steps In During Lively Royal Week Moment In Scotland
King Charles found himself at the centre of an unexpectedly lively Royal Week moment after his protection officers moved quickly during a traditional handba’ game in the Scottish Borders.
The monarch was visiting Jedburgh in Roxburghshire on Thursday when he was invited to throw in the first ba’ for the historic local game. The tradition, which dates back to 1704, forms part of the town’s annual Jethart Callant festival and is known for its energetic, full-contact style.
As soon as the King released the ball, around 20 players rushed forward to compete for it. The sudden surge happened only feet away from Charles, prompting members of his security team to step in immediately, form a protective stance and gently guide him backwards from the action.
© Getty ImagesThe King’s protection team soon stepped in
Rather than appearing alarmed, Charles seemed amused by the scene. Dressed in a smart grey suit, he continued watching the rough-and-tumble contest and chatting with those around him as the players battled for the ball on the ground.
Before the game began, the King was heard jokingly asking where the health and safety was. One of the men reportedly replied that there was no health and safety there, setting the tone for a tradition that clearly takes pride in its old-fashioned physicality.
© Getty ImagesKing Charles III starts a traditional game of hand ba’ during his visit to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders
Jethart Callants Club president Charlie Young said the King appeared to enjoy the spectacle and was chuckling at the action. He added that Charles seemed familiar with the game and mentioned having played a similar version in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, although it was not clear when that had taken place.
The close-call moment also highlighted the constant work carried out by the royal protection team. As monarch, King Charles receives automatic round-the-clock taxpayer-funded security, while the heir to the throne and their close family also receive dedicated protection.
Royal security has been a major topic this week because Prince Harry is scheduled to visit the UK amid continued questions over his own protection arrangements. The Duke of Sussex lost his automatic police security after stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to North America.
Charles’s visit to Jedburgh formed part of Royal Week in Scotland, the annual period when the Royal Family undertakes engagements north of the border. The week began with the King arriving at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh for the Ceremony of the Keys and an investiture.
© Getty ImagesKing Charles with his former bodyguard
On Wednesday, King Charles and Queen Camilla attended the Order of the Thistle service at St Giles’ Cathedral alongside Prince William, known in Scotland as the Duke of Rothesay, and Prince Edward. The week has blended ceremony, community visits and moments of local tradition.
© Getty ImagesPrince William, King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended the Thistle Service at St Giles’ Cathedral
For many royal watchers, the Jedburgh handba’ moment stood out because it showed two very different sides of royal life at once: the careful choreography of royal security and the King’s genuine enjoyment of local customs.
Even with his protection officers on high alert, Charles appeared relaxed, curious and entertained by the rough energy of the game. It was a brief but memorable Royal Week scene, and one that quickly became a talking point beyond the Scottish Borders.
