King Charles 'milestone' health update as palace addresses 'challenges' and share never-before-seen picture with Queen Camilla

The King is to return to public royal duties after the positive effect of cancer treatment.

King Charles has been receiving care as an outpatient since early February and the announcement will be a boost for the monarchy as it comes to terms with the King and the Princess of Wales being cancer patients.

Sources stressed that despite the welcome news, the King still has cancer and will continue to be treated for the undisclosed form of the disease.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said “…His Majesty’s medical team are very encouraged by the progress made so far and remain positive about the King’s continued recovery.”

It has been widely reported that the King was keen to resume some form of public duties, despite his illness, after the announcement of his cancer diagnosis on February 6.

The Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “His Majesty’s treatment programme will continue, but doctors are sufficiently pleased with the progress made so far that the King is now able to resume a number of public-facing duties.

“Forthcoming engagements will be adapted where necessary to minimise any risks to His Majesty’s continued recovery.”

Charles’s diary of events will not be a full summer programme, and attendance will be announced nearer the time and “subject to doctors’ advice”, with “adaptations made where necessary to minimise risk” to the King’s recovery.

It is understood the warmer weather would allow events to be staged outside and minimise the risk posed by other people that many cancer patients face.

The spokesperson added: “The pacing of the King’s programme will be carefully calibrated as his recovery continues, in close consultation with his medical team.”

A picture marking this positive new development - which was taken by Millie Pilkington the day after the couple celebrated their 19th wedding anniversary on April 10 - has also been released.

Charles and Camilla are shown smiling broadly and walking arm in arm along a path with shrubs and colourful flowers in the background.

In addition, The King and Queen will host Their Majesties The Emperor and Empress of Japan for a state visit in June, at the request of HM Government.

“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.”