Royal Maundy service: why is The Queen not attending church service - and who is replacing her?

Queen Elizabeth II is set to miss out on this year’s Royal Maundy service.

The monarch will not be able to attend the Easter event in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on Thursday 14 April.

Instead, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will represent The Queen at the annual event.

Why is The Queen not attending the Royal Maundy service?

Buckingham Palace confirmed that The Queen will not be attending this year’s Royal Maundy service.

She is said to be “regretfully unable to commit” to the service which takes place each year in the St George Chapel at Windsor Castle.

It has been known that the monarch has struggled with mobility issues in recent times, particularly following a Covid diagnosis in February, and this is believed to be the reason for pulling out of the church service.

The Queen is said to have wanted to confirm arrangements ahead of time “to avoid any misunderstanding or the day to be overshadowed”.

How is The Queen’s health?

Recent pictures showed The Queen walking with a walking stick.

She was unable to attend a Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey on 14 March reportedly due to concerns over the transport to London and her Majesty’s comfort.

However, she was able to attend a commemoration service which was held at Westminster Abbey on 29 March in memory of Prince Philip.

Since making the trip to London for the service at the end of March, the monarch has taken it easy with virtual meetings from her new residence in Windsor Castle.

Who is replacing The Queen at the Royal Maundy service?

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will represent The Queen at the annual Easter service.

It will mark the first time that her son has represented her at the service.

What is the Royal Maundy service?

The service is held every year on ‘Maundy Thursday’ - the Thursday before Good Friday.

Locations of the service periodically change, a request of The Queen to distribute Maundy money to those outside of London.

In grand tradition, The Queen gives money to community leaders and stalwarts.

The number of people and the amount of Maundy money which they receive depends on The Queen’s age

For example, this year 95 people will be given money.

Prince Charles and Camilla will instead hand out the Maundy money at this year’s event.