At your (Easter) service

Joy as he chats to royal fans | More public duties in pipeline

- RUSSELL MYERS

THEY were cautious first steps, but ones that gave the nation hope the King was edging his way back into public life after a difficult time for the Royal Family.

Charles delighted well-wishers as he appeared at an Easter Sunday church service in Windsor Castle yesterday before waving to the crowds and chatting to those outside.

And Buckingham Palace offered a positive outlook on his recovery from cancer by announcing he could be ready to step up official duties soon, depending on medical approval.

It raised hopes the monarch may attend Trooping the Colour, his official birthday celebration on June 15, and maybe Royal Ascot days later.

The King, who is having weekly treatment for the disease, shook as many hands as possible with royal fans and when one said "get well soon" he replied: "I'm doing my best."

It was his most significant public appearance since the Palace told in February he had cancer, and after the Princess of Wales also said last week she is being treated for the disease.

A royal source said: "Today was a significant step.

"The King has responded to treatment encouragingly over past weeks and his doctors were able to adjust their guidance slightly on what he is now able to undertake, including attendance at the Easter service and greeting well-wishers who had kindly turned out to show their support.

"His Majesty's treatment continues and caution is the watchword.