King Charles Distributes Commemorative Coins at Durham Cathedral Maundy Service
The King presents coins to 152 individuals for their service to local communities and charity, as part of royal Easter celebrations
King Charles has presented commemorative coins to 152 people at a traditional Maundy Thursday service held at Durham Cathedral.
The recipients, consisting of 76 men and 76 women, were chosen for their service to their local community and charity.
The King was accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla, who had stood in for him at last year's Maundy service.
The service is one of the oldest royal ceremonies, dating back to at least the 13th Century, and typically features the distribution of Maundy money to elderly individuals.
This year's Maundy money includes a £5 coin commemorating the Queen Mother and a 50p piece commemorating World War Two.
Each recipient received two small leather purses from the King, containing Maundy money and commemorative coins.
The event was attended by crowds of supporters outside the cathedral, while members of an anti-monarchy group protested the tradition.
Prior to the service, the King released an Easter message promoting links between different faiths and recognising the efforts of those providing humanitarian aid in wars and disasters.
He also announced the launch of a new Humanitarian Medal, honouring individuals who risk their lives to help others in emergencies and war zones.
The Maundy Thursday service marks the Last Supper for Christians, and the King's message spoke of the humility of Jesus and the importance of love for others.
The recipients, consisting of 76 men and 76 women, were chosen for their service to their local community and charity.
The King was accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla, who had stood in for him at last year's Maundy service.
The service is one of the oldest royal ceremonies, dating back to at least the 13th Century, and typically features the distribution of Maundy money to elderly individuals.
This year's Maundy money includes a £5 coin commemorating the Queen Mother and a 50p piece commemorating World War Two.
Each recipient received two small leather purses from the King, containing Maundy money and commemorative coins.
The event was attended by crowds of supporters outside the cathedral, while members of an anti-monarchy group protested the tradition.
Prior to the service, the King released an Easter message promoting links between different faiths and recognising the efforts of those providing humanitarian aid in wars and disasters.
He also announced the launch of a new Humanitarian Medal, honouring individuals who risk their lives to help others in emergencies and war zones.
The Maundy Thursday service marks the Last Supper for Christians, and the King's message spoke of the humility of Jesus and the importance of love for others.