What is the history behind the traditional Royal Maundy Thursday service?

By The Newsroom

Published 13th Apr 2017, 08:03 BST

Updated 9th May 2017, 19:02 BST

The Queen will mark Maundy Thursday by distributing alms as part of a tradition dating back to the 13th century.

She will be accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh for the service at Leicester Cathedral where the Maundy Money will be distributed to 91 men and 91 women - representing each of her 91 years.

The 182 recipients of the Maundy money are senior citizens who will be given the gifts in recognition of the service they have given to the church and their local area.