The Queen has handed out Maundy money in a ceremony that traces its roots back to the 4th century.

Queen Camilla presented 150 people with specially minted coins at a service at Worcester Cathedral.

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Her Majesty was standing in for The King who was unable to attend as he continues with treatment for cancer.

However, The King had asked the Worcester Cathedral Flower Guild to prepare special nosegays for the service. Queen Camilla was presented with a posy of spring flowers that included pear blossom from Worcester trees.

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King Charles also recorded an audio message which was played at the service in which he spoke of the importance of friendship.

Those receiving the coins have been chosen for their contribution to their local communities.

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The Queen handed each of them two purses of coins. One, a white purse, holds specially minted money to the value of the Monarch’s age which, this year, is 75. The red purse holds coins commemorating special events. This year, the money marked the 200th anniversary of the RNLI and also included a coin bearing a Tudor dragon.

The red purse is a special link to the origins of Maundy money. Originally, monarchs handed out alms to the poor on Maundy Thursday and washed their feet to commemorate the act of Jesus at the Last Supper as he washed the feet of his disciples. The red purse replicates the gift of money and clothes to those in need.

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Among the recipients this year was Norman Tomlinson who said afterwards it had been a fantastic experience. He also revealed he had asked The Queen to send his best wishes to The King and to the Princess of Wales as both continue their treatments for cancer.

Queen Camilla was also given get well messages for King Charles and the Princess as she spoke to the large crowd waiting for her outside Worcester Cathedral.

The King and Queen will attend an Easter Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor.