King Charles in London: Pictures of visit to UCL Macmillan Cancer Centre on return to royal duties

King Charles made a return to royal duties in London on Tuesday (April 30) after receiving treatment for cancer.

Along with Queen Camilla, the 75-year-old monarch visited University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre on the day that he was announced as the new patron of Cancer Research UK.

The couple were presented with flowers as they were welcomed by well-wishers.

Lord Simon Stevens, chair of Cancer Research UK, said: “We are delighted that His Majesty King Charles III has agreed to become our Patron.

“As the largest independent funder of cancer science, Cancer Research UK works at the leading edge of progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

“While cancer survival in the UK has doubled in recent decades, nearly one in two people will now get cancer in their lifetime so the King’s support for our vital mission is hugely welcome.”

While visiting University College Hospital, the King met with Cancer Research UK’s chief clinician, Professor Charlie Swanton, who leads TRACERx – a research initiative involving 250 researchers and clinicians based at 19 centres. TRACERx is the biggest investment in lung cancer research by Cancer Research UK and aims to investigate how lung cancer evolves over time and why treatments sometimes stop working.

The royal couple learnt about other cancer technologies on offer at University College Hospital, including CT scanners, which are being used to help with early detection.

Announcing the return to duties, Buckingham Palace said in a statement last week: “As the first anniversary of the Coronation approaches, Their Majesties remain deeply grateful for the many kindnesses and good wishes they have received from around the world throughout the joys and challenges of the past year.”