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King named Cancer Research UK patron as he resumes public-facing duties

Charles has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer since early February.

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The King meets patients during a visit to University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre

The King has been named as the new patron of Cancer Research UK as he resumed public-facing events for the first time since his diagnosis.

Charles, joined by the Queen, arrived at University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London to meet medical staff and patients.

The head of state has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer since early February and on Friday it was announced he would be returning to public-facing duties.

The development indicated the positive progress Charles is making after almost three months of cancer care as an outpatient.

The King’s visit aims to raise awareness of the importance of early cancer diagnosis and highlight some of the innovative research, supported by Cancer Research UK, taking place at the hospital.

Charles and Camilla  meet staff members
Charles and Camilla meet staff members as they arrive at University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre (Suzanne Plunkett/PA)

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said on Friday: “His Majesty is greatly encouraged to be resuming some public-facing duties and very grateful to his medical team for their continued care and expertise.”

Sources have stressed that despite the welcome news, the King still has cancer and will continue to be treated for the undisclosed form of the disease.

As the new patron of Cancer Research UK, the King will meet Cancer Research UK’s chief clinician Professor Charlie Swanton, who has led a project called TRACERx tackling lung and other cancers.

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