Buckingham Palace brings centuries of tradition to life at St Asaph Cathedral

A royal tradition came alive in North Wales as King Charles led the Royal Maundy Service, shared on Thursday by Buckingham Palace.

The ceremony saw the King present special Maundy gifts to 77 men and women from Wales and dioceses across the UK, honouring their outstanding Christian service and contributions to local communities.

The white purse contained 77 specially minted pennies, one for each year of the King’s life.

While the red purse featured a £5 coin commemorating the late Queen’s centenary and a 50p coin celebrating the 50th anniversary of the King’s Trust.

King Charles and Queen Camilla mingled with well-wishers, warmly accepting bouquets of flowers and exchanging words of thanks. 

Guests from local communities and dioceses across Wales had the chance to meet the royals up close. 

The service included a royal procession into the cathedral, accompanied by music commissioned from Welsh composers.

Looking ahead, the King and Queen Camilla will attend the Easter service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales and other family members.