He appeared in public for the first time since his cancer diagnosis with a beaming Camilla by his side.
Yesterday it was time again for the annual Easter Mattins Service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. And although King Charles has been treated for cancer since February, he felt well enough to attend the traditional Easter service. The first public appearance since his cancer diagnosis produced a number of snapshots of a cheerful-looking British monarch.
Present
Until recently, the king was only seen at audiences and private functions. But last week, Buckingham Palace announced that Charles would be present during the Easter service in St. George’s Chapel. The king’s decision to attend the Easter service is seen as important. It suggests that the doctors treating him think Charles is doing well enough at the moment. And judging by his smile, the king himself completely agrees.
Radiant royal couple
The royal couple arrived in a state-owned Bentley and appeared cheerfully at the Mattins service. King Charles looked the part as usual in a smart coat and blue tie.
A big smile was on his face. But how could it be otherwise, with such a beautiful lady by your side? The happy couple was photographed waving to a group of royal fans who had gathered at Windsor Castle.
Queen Camilla dazzled in a regal emerald green coat dress by Anna Valentine, which she teamed with a matching Philip Treacy hat, black suede boots and a stylish, quilted black Chanel handbag.
Springy green
The group was then joined by a number of leading members of the royal family. Shortly after the royal couple arrived, their sister Princess Anne also appeared. Following Queen Camilla’s green outfit, Anne also wore a mint green coat which she combined with a green hat with black feathers.
But the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, also appeared in spring-like green. For the occasion she wore a dress in a special fern color.
Sarah was accompanied by her ex and late Queen Elizabeth’s most controversial son: Prince Andrew. Although the scandalous prince had to renounce several military titles and is no longer allowed to perform public duties, he is remarkably still welcome during the traditional Easter service.
Bright purple Prada
King Charles’ other younger brother Prince Edward looked dapper in a pinstripe suit. He was accompanied by the Duchess of Edinburgh, his wife Sophie. And although Edward made a neat appearance, the Duchess stole the show in her bright purple Prada coat with gold buttons. She combined this gem with a cream-colored hat and high pumps in the same cream shade.
The couple also included their son James, the Earl of Wessex, 16, who also appeared in a smart, dark blue suit.
Physical contact
Then it was time for the usual round of shaking hands. The doctors reportedly advised Charles against physical contact because of his illness, but the king clearly ignored this advice. The fact that the head of the British monarchy is ill is certainly not forgotten by the people. One of the members of the audience shouted something along the lines of ‘stay strong!’ to the king, to which he replied, “I’m doing my best.”
Princess Kate
As previously confirmed, the Prince and Princess of Wales were not present at the Easter service. Due to Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis, the Waleses are expected to celebrate Easter at Anmer Hall with their three children. A great moment for some quality time with the family, Will and Kate must have thought, since their offspring don’t have to return to class until April 17.
After the service, the royal party usually returns to Windsor Castle for a traditional lunch of roast lamb. Events were organized for visitors at various royal residences on the occasion of Easter.
Source: Hello!, RTL Boulevard | Image: NL Image
