Anti-Monarchy Graffiti Covered Up at Welsh Cathedral Ahead of Royal Visit
Graffiti declaring "Not our King" has been swiftly removed from the grounds of St Asaph Cathedral in North Wales, mere hours before King Charles III and Queen Camilla were scheduled to attend a significant Easter service. The red spray-painted message appeared on a wall at the historic site, where the Royal Maundy ceremony was being held in Wales for only the second time in its long history.
Historic Service Proceeds Amid Security Concerns
Workers in high-visibility jackets were observed on Thursday morning attempting to erase the paint before the King's arrival later that day. A tarpaulin cloth was used to cover the graffiti, which read "Not My King", ensuring the area was presentable for the royal event. The service, a tradition dating back to 1210 under King John, commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ and involves the distribution of alms to recognize outstanding Christian service.
Royal Maundy Ceremony Honors Community Contributors
During the service, King Charles presented gifts to 77 men and 77 women from Wales and other dioceses across the United Kingdom, including Shropshire. These recipients were selected for their exceptional contributions to their communities and Christian service. The King distributed two purses to each individual: a white purse containing specially minted silver Maundy coins totaling 77 pennies, symbolizing his age, and a red purse with a £5 coin marking 100 years since the late Queen's birth and a 50p coin celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust charity.
First Welsh Service in Decades Features Local Talent
This year's Royal Maundy service marked the first time it has been held in Wales since 1982, making it a notable occasion for the region. The event featured specially commissioned music by Welsh composers and musicians, adding a local cultural touch to the traditional ceremony. King Charles was assisted in distributing the Maundy Money by the Lord High Almoner, currently the Bishop of Norwich, the Right Rev Graham Usher.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the monarchy, even as the historic service proceeded without further disruption, celebrating community service and religious traditions in North Wales.
