Worcester ready for Queen visit

Worcester Cathedral is all set to welcome the Queen to the city for the Royal Maundy service today.

It last hosted the event in 1980, and it sees gifts presented to people across the country for the work they do in their communities.

Ceremonial coins will be distributed to 75 men and 75 women by Her Majesty The Queen on behalf of The King, 39 of those being from the diocese covering Worcestershire and Dudley.

Although he won't be present, in a pre-recorded message to be played during the Service, the King will say that we can all benefit from kindness - "especially in a time of need".

Interim Dean, Stephen Edwards, says getting the chance to host the day is really special.

He said: "It's a once in a lifetime experience for most people so it's exciting, and just such a huge honour.

"I think that moment that she steps out of the car and we all say hello to her and greet her, that's going to be really special.

"150 men and women are going to receive these coins from Her Majesty as a way of saying thank you for all that they do, as so many people just work behind the scenes in our communities, day in, day out, and this service is to honour them."

The Lord Bishop of Worcester John Inge says a lot of hard work has gone on to make sure everything flows smoothly.

"There's an enormous amount of work that has gone into all preparation," the Bishop said.

"When we found out that the King decided that the Royal Maundy service should be held in Worcester this year, we were just absolutely delighted.

"We're just hoping that the final ingredient we need to make it the perfect occasion in good weather arrives."

Worcestershire County Council have said road closures will be in place throughout the day, with a barrier in place along Deansway for people to stand behind and watch.

The following roads will be closed between 8am and 2pm:

• A44 (from Junction of City Walls Rd & Edgar St to Junction of Quay Street) 
• Cathedral Square Service Road (access to NCP Car Park) 
• Cathedral Square        
• College Yard
• Copenhagen St (from Car Park to High St)   
• Fish Street (from Deansway to High St)        
• Friar St (from Junction of College Street to NCP rear exit)  

Copenhagen Street Car Park will also be closed to the general public, with traffic being diverted through the north eastern side of the city centre.

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• The Royal Family