King reassures public 'I'm well' after return to duties

The King has reassured the public I’m well” as he met with fellow cancer sufferers in his return to public-facing duties for the first time since he announced his diagnosis.

- TARA COBHAM

Charles also candidly described the shock of the moment he received his positive test when he and the Queen met patients and doctors at the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre yesterday.

In his first public engagement since he disclosed he had the disease three months ago, the monarch was raising awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and to highlight innovative research taking place at the London-based medical institution.

During the visit, which also marked his first day as the new patron of Cancer Research UK, the monarch spoke about the experience of being told he had cancer and reassured those who asked about the state of his health. He even went on impromptu walkabouts meeting staff who had stopped to catch a glimpse of the royal couple.

Outside, royal enthusiasts were excitedly awaiting the pair’s arrival yesterday morning. John Loughrey, 69, from London, said his wife Marion Crean, whose favourite royal had always been Charles, died of cancer aged just 48. Mr Loughrey, who gave Camilla a bouquet of flowers, told The Independent: “One thing Charles does know is he is not alone. It doesn’t matter who you are, cancer can strike anyone.”

The King, seemingly in good spirits, smiled and waved as he was greeted by the crowd. Ellis Edwards, an 11-year-old cancer patient said it was “very exciting” meeting the royals after they gave him three books and a Buckingham Palace-labelled gold chocolate coin.