Behind the Royal Maundy Service

Available for 28 days

In the lead‑up to this year's Royal Maundy Service at St Asaph Cathedral, Jonathan Thomas considers what it takes to bring such a significant Christian ceremony to life. This year also marks the first time in history that the service will take place in north Wales. Ahead of Easter, King Charles III will arrive to distribute specially minted Maundy coins, given to 77 men and 77 women in recognition of their dedicated service to their communities. The number of recipients reflects the age of the monarch, a tradition that has endured for centuries. In this programme, Jonathan finds out about the long and remarkable history of the Royal Maundy Service with the Lord High Almoner, the Right Reverend Graham Usher, and the Bishop of St Asaph, the Right Reverend Gregory Cameron. He also meets two of this year's Maundy money recipients, Joan Winwood and Michael Vellacott. Plus, he explores the many creative preparations behind this landmark event, speaking to Florist, Kate Jordan, and the King's Harpist, Mared Emyr Pugh-Evans. Presented by Jonathan Thomas. Produced by Stuart Russell. Audio Supervision by Emyr Evans. Cover Image by Ellena Coxall.