King Charles in the backseat of a car on his way to Sandringham Estate.Photo:TheImageDirect.com

EXCLUSIVE: HM King Charles III is seen leaving RAF Marham on his way to the Sandringham Estate where he will rest prior to his prostate surgery next week.

TheImageDirect.com

King Charleswas seen out for the first time since his upcoming surgery was announced.

The King, 75, was photographed in the backseat of a car on Friday en route to the royal family’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk withQueen Camilla. The royal couple was flown in from Aberdeen Airport to RAF Marham via a Royal Air Force jet, and then driven the rest of the way to Sandringham.

King Charles' appearance marks the first time he has been spotted out since Buckingham Palace announced on Wednesday that he will beundergoing treatment for an enlarged prostatenext week.

King Charles heads to Sandringham Estate.TheImageDirect.com

EXCLUSIVE: HM King Charles III is seen leaving RAF Marham on his way to the Sandringham Estate where he will rest prior to his prostate surgery next week.

“In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” the palace’s statement read. “His Majesty’s condition is benign, and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure.”

They added, “The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.”

It is understood that King Charles wished to share his condition in hopes that other men would be encouraged to get themselves checked if they are experiencing symptoms. Additionally, a royal source told PEOPLE that the monarch will be capable of fulfilling his constitutional requirements and duties during this time.

King Charles leaving FAF Marham.TheImageDirect.com

King Charles

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Prior to King Charles and Queen Camilla, 76, heading to Sandringham, the Queen continued her royal duties with a visit to the Aberdeen Art Gallery in Scotland on Thursday. While she was on hand to help open a “Safe Space” to help provide guidance to those who are seeking to help people they suspect are living with domestic abuse, Camilla gave reportersan update on her husband’s health.

In the video, Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeen Dr. David Cameron asked, “How is His Majesty?”

“He’s fine, thank you very much. Looking forward to getting back to work,” the Queen replied.

Queen Camilla and King Charles visit France in Sept. 2023.Chris Jackson/Getty

Queen Camilla and King Charles III attend a State Banquet at The Palace of Versailles on September 20, 2023 in Versailles, France.

Chris Jackson/Getty

The King’s health news came just hours after Kensington Palace announced that his daughter-in-lawKate Middletonhad successfully undergone a"planned abdominal surgery"on Tuesday. The Princess of Wales, 42, is expected to stay in the hospital for 10-14 days, and she is unlikely to resume her royal duties until after Easter.

“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private,” the statement read in part. “Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.”

Princess Kate andPrince Williamare parents toPrince George, 10,Princess Charlotte, 8, andPrince Louis, 5. William, 41, will also be cutting back on his royal duties to help care for the children and look after the Princess of Wales as she recovers.

Kate Middleton and Prince William in Scotland in July 2023.Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty

Kate Catherine Prince William Queen Thanksgiving Edinburgh 07 05 23

Andrew Milligan - Pool/Getty

source: people.com