King Charles III described Wednesday how a cancer diagnosis can be a “daunting and at times frightening” experience for sufferers and their loved ones as he hosted an event to laud the “extraordinary work” of cancer charities.

The British monarch said the “frightening” experience of cancer could also illuminate the “best of humanity” as he thanked medical workers and charities.

Britain's King Charles on Wednesday said his cancer diagnosis had been an experience that showed him "the very best of humanity", in a personal message celebrating the work of cancer support groups and charities.