His Majesty – who still has the disease and is undergoing treatment – visited the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre this morning with his wife Queen Camilla, meeting patients and staff in his role as the charity’s patron.

Charles is keen that his inaugural engagement since doctors gave him the all-clear to restart public events will raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis.

The 75-year-old monarch also hopes the trip can highlight some off the innovative research, supported by Cancer Research UK, which is taking place at the hospital.

And today it can be announced that His Majesty has agreed to become the new patron of Cancer Research UK, bringing his own ongoing experience to the position.

The hospital was not chosen because it has a link with the King’s treatment or form of cancer, neither of which have yet been publicly disclosed