It was a proud day for Luton Irish Forum when King Charles visited Luton on 6th December 2022. LIF CEO Noelette Hanley was invited by her Worship The Mayor, Sameera Saleem, to a Civic Reception at Luton Town Hall, where she was presented to King Charles. Noelette was invited along with other community leaders and workers, reflecting the diversity and commitment of charitable and faith organisations who have made a positive impact on community cohesion in Luton.

“I felt privileged to be invited to meet King Charles III. This was a historic moment in the life of the town and a fantastic opportunity for Luton Irish Forum to be part of. “ Noelette Hanley CEO

His Majesty was greeted by huge crowds at the Town Hall, where he chatted  to local residents and community groups, including representatives from The Ghana Society, Royal British Legion, the Luton Town Football Academy and local veterans and cadets. The King also had the opportunity to listen to singing from the St Matthew’s Primary School Choir and music from the Luton Sixth Form Music Performance Group, before going into the Town Hall. He also visited the newly built Guru Nanak Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) and Luton International Airport. The Cardinal Newman Catholic High School Choir and Orchestra performed at the airport for King Charles. The King took  a ride on The new DART (Direct Air-Rail Transit) before its official opening next year. It will transport passengers from  Luton Airport Parkway station to the airport terminal in just over three minutes, 24 hours a day. 

Luton Irish Forum’s volunteers group was awarded the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2020 and the charity goes from strength to strength offering welfare advice, social opportunities and cultural events.