King Charles has paid tribute to the selflessness of others and the protection of the Earth in his first Christmas message since ascending to the throne earlier this year.
The British monarch, 75, stood behind a Christmas tree decorated with gold sustainable ornaments as he delivered his message from Buckingham Palace.
He began by addressing the "countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another, going the extra mile to help those around them, simply because they know it is the right thing to do – at work and at home, within and across communities".
The royal also acknowledged the privilege of his family in the face of a global cost of living crisis.
"Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities," he said.
"This is all the more important at a time of real hardship for many when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves because out of God’s providence, we are blessed with much and it is incumbent on us to use this wisely."
Charles, a known champion of sustainable causes, also recognised that caring for the planet as a "responsibility owned by all faiths and of none".
"We care for the Earth for the sake of our children's children," he said.
"During my lifetime, I've been so pleased to see a growing awareness of how we must protect the Earth and our natural world as the one home which we all share."
He also acknowledged the "increasingly tragic conflict around the world".
"I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other. The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant. Do to others as you would have them do to you," he said.
"Such values are universal, drawing together our Abrahamic family of religions and other belief systems, across the Commonwealth and wider world.
"They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbours and to seek the good as we would our own."
He continued: "So on this Christmas Day, my heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another, all who are caring for our common home, and all who see and seek the good of others – not least the friend we do not yet know.
"In this way, we bring out the best in ourselves.
"I wish you a Christmas of peace on Earth and good will to all, today and always."
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