At your (Easter) service

Joy as he chats to royal fans

- RUSSELL MYERS

THE King yesterday smiled and Iwaved at royal fans in the most positive sign yet since his shock cancer diagnosis.

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

One onlooker shouted "get well soon" to which he replied: "I'm doing my best."

A source said: "The King has responded to treatment very encouragingly."

And Buckingham Palace announced he could be ready to step up official duties soon, depending on medical approval.

It raised hopes that 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.

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 was 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.

"But as diary plans are evolved towards summer, we hope to see more of these carefully calibrated steps towards the resumption of public-facing duties for the King, with adjustments where necessary.