The Queen has pulled out of the annual Maundy Thursday church service for the first time since she ascended the throne.
Her Majesty, who turns 96 this month, will be sending the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall to represent her.
Each year, the Queen gives bags of ceremonial silver coins to do-gooders from local churches and communities.
The service, due to be held on April 14, will take place at St George’s Chapel, at Windsor Castle.
It is the first time the service will go ahead since the pandemic began – the proceedings have been cancelled for the last two years.
The head of state, who tested positive for coronavirus earlier this year, continues to do the bulk of her meetings via Zoom from within Windsor Castle.
The Palace said in a statement: 'Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall will represent Her Majesty The Queen at the Royal
Maundy Service at St George's Chapel, Windsor on Thursday 14th April.
'The Prince and The Duchess will be met by the Dean of Windsor, The Right Reverend David Conner KCVO and the Lord High Almoner, the Right Reverend Dr. John Inge.
'Their Royal Highnesses will be presented with nosegays at the start of the service, during which The Prince of Wales will distribute the Maundy money.
'Following the service, The Prince and The Duchess will proceed to the West Steps where an official photograph will be taken of Their Royal Highnesses and the Royal Maundy party.'