King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla made history on Thursday as they attended their first Royal Maundy service of their reign. The couple were greeted by cheers from the crowd as well as a group of noisy protestors as they arrived at York Minster.
During the service, the King distributed commemorative coins, known as Maundy money, to 74 men and 74 women who have made a difference to their communities. Each recipient received a red and a white purse from the King, with the white purse containing specially-minted silver Maundy coins equivalent in value to the age of the King. The red purse contained two commemorative coins, one celebrating the King’s forthcoming 75th birthday and the other commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Windrush Generation.
The King and Queen Consort spent 20 minutes speaking with members of the public during a lengthy walkabout after the service. This was after the couple visited Malton in North Yorkshire on Wednesday.
Camilla looked elegant in a navy and white dress by Fiona Clare and a Philip Treacy hat for the service. She accessorized her ensemble with the Queen Mother’s Rock Crystal brooch, pearl earrings, and a Chanel handbag. The royal couple were also presented with the traditional nosegay, a small flower bouquet, as they entered the cathedral.
Buckingham Palace released further details about the King’s coronation earlier this week, including a new portrait of the couple taken in the blue drawing room, as well as a first look at the ceremony invitation and details about the Pages of Honour. It was confirmed that the Prince and Princess of Wales’s eldest child, Prince George, nine, will serve as one of his grandfather’s Pages, while Camilla has chosen three of her grandsons, as well as family friends.
The King and Queen Consort’s attendance at the Royal Maundy service and their upcoming coronation on 6 May marks a significant moment in British history. The country eagerly anticipates the new chapter that King Charles will usher in as he ascends to the throne.
