'Working will do wonders for him...'

As King Charles announces his return to public duty, a hopeful message from cancer doctor:

- Lucy Johnston

THE NEWS King Charles is returning to work is not just great for the country – it will give him a boost as he battles back from the impact of his cancer, experts said last night.

Buckingham Palace has announced His Majesty will be returning to public-facing duties after a three-month absence.

Charles, 75, is not yet clear of the disease and is still undergoing treatment but his medical team said it was “very encouraged by the progress made so far”.

By working, he will be able to channel his energies into his constitutional role rather than dwelling on the illness, health experts say.

This can boost both his psychological and physical wellbeing. And the fact he feels able to return to work is also a positive sign he is responding to treatment.

Professor Karol Sikora, a world-leading cancer specialist, said: “Psychologically there is going to be uncertainty about whether the cancer will come back – even after treatment. That is a problem with any cancer diagnosis.

“There is a chance the treatment might cause problems. This uncertainty can cause profound problems. One of the best ways to handle this is to get back to normal as soon as possible.”