A radio station in England has apologized for announcing the Death of King Charles III by mistake.

Radio Caroline in Essex, England, said the mistake was due to a “computer error” at its main studio on Tuesday, which led to the Death being announced..

“Due to a computer error at our main studio, the Death of a monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (May 19), mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away,” station manager Peter Moore said on Facebook.

“Radio Caroline then fell silent as would be required, which alerted us to restore programming and issue an on-air apology,” Moore added. “Caroline has been pleased to broadcast Her Majesty the Queen’s, and now the King’s, Christmas message and we hope to do so for many years to come.”

“We apologise to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused,” Moore said.

Radio Caroline was playing the song “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes when the music suddenly stopped.

“This is Radio Caroline. We have suspended our normal programmes until further notice as a mark of formal respect following the passing of His Majesty King Charles III,” a man said.

Advertisement

“This is Radio Caroline. His Majesty King Charles III has passed away. As a mark of respect, we will now be playing suitable continuous music until further notice,” the man continued.

“The news media has confirmed that his Majesty King Charles III has passed away,” it was then said. “Consequently, as a mark of respect Radio Caroline is suspending its normal programmes,” he added.

Listen:

The British national anthem was then played.