13/04/2006

Queen distributes Maundy money

The Queen is distributing Maundy money to 160 pensioners at the Royal Maundy Service at Guildford Cathedral today.

The Queen, who celebrates her 80th birthday next week, will distribute the Maundy coins to 80 men and 80 women, specially selected for their contribution to the Church and the local community. They come from all denominations of the Christian faith.

Each recipient will receive two purses filled with money. The white purse contains 80p - for the Queen's 80th birthday - in Maundy coins, while the red purse will contain a special five-pound coin to mark the Queen's birthday and a 50 pence piece which will mark 150 years of the Victoria Cross.

All the coins are newly minted this year.

The origins of the Maundy service can be traced back to the Last Supper. Initially, the monarch would also participate in the ceremonial washing of feet and provide a mean and gifts of food and clothing, although this no longer happens in modern times.

The service was traditionally held in Westminster Abbey until the Queen decided that that service should change location each year.

(KMcA)






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