A former rector of Hexham Abbey has been appointed to a new royal role.

King Charles III has appointed the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, as his next Lord High Almoner.

The role dates back more than 900 years and makes Mr Usher responsible for the annual Royal Maundy Service when the monarch gives specially-minted silver coins to older people in recognition of their Christian service to their churches and communities.

Mr Usher said: "I feel very honoured that His Majesty the King has appointed me to the ancient role of Lord High Almoner.

"I understand that the Royal Maundy Service is deeply prayerful and sacramental in nature.

"I am looking forward to being with His Majesty at these services, as well as meeting the incredible recipients who have served Christ‘s Church over many decades through prayer, hospitality and care of their neighbours.

"My prayer is that we will each know afresh Jesus’ mandatum to ‘love one another as I have loved you.’"

Specially minted coins are distributed in pouches at the Royal Maundy Service  (Image: Worcester Cathedral)

The ancient ceremony is held on Maundy Thursday, just before Easter which is the day Christians commemorate the Last Supper.

Previously monarchs washed the feet of people chosen to receive Maundy gifts of food and clothing – which has since been replaced by money.

Now specially minted coins are given to a man and a woman for each year of the monarch’s age.

That means that next Easter Bishop Graham will help arrange for The King to present Maundy Money to 76 men and 76 women.

The 2024 Royal Maundy Service  (Image: Worcester Cathedral)

The Royal Maundy service was traditionally held in Westminster Abbey however, Queen Elizabeth II decided to take it to cathedrals across the country.

She attended all but five services during her reign including at least one at every cathedral in England.

Mr Usher adds his new role to his duties as Bishop of Norwich, taking over from the Bishop of Worcester.

This year’s service was held in Worcester Cathedral, with Queen Camilla distributing the Maundy Money.

The next Royal Maundy Service will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025.