The News
**Queen Elizabeth II Spotted Using Walking Aid at Service Ceremony**
Queen Elizabeth II was all smiles as she posed for pictures with the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall to commemorate the Order of the Guard of Service at St George's Chapel in Windsor.
The monarch, who has been facing mobility challenges in recent months, was seen clutching a walking aid during the event on Monday.
Her Majesty utilized a walking stick crafted from light wood, featuring a metal clasp and a smooth marble handle, believed to be a gift from the armed forces in honor of her Jubilee celebrations earlier this month.
Despite her mobility issues, Queen Elizabeth arrived at the service exuding regal elegance in an opulent silvery-white gown.
She accessorized with a matching silver handbag, silver heels, a blue garter sash, her garter star badge, and her bow brooch.
Flanked by Prince Charles and Camilla, who both donned splendid velvet garter robes, the trio posed for a joyous photograph at Windsor Castle ahead of the garter service at St George's Chapel.
Due to ongoing mobility concerns, the 96-year-old Queen did not partake in the traditional procession of garter knights and ladies through the Berkshire Castle grounds.
However, she did attend a behind-the-scenes lunch and investiture ceremony.
The presence of the disgraced Duke of York during the procession was limited following a family decision, restricting his appearance to the lunch and investiture ceremony.
Despite withdrawing from public life in 2019, he made a private appearance as a garter knight.
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, participated in the procession for the first time after being appointed a Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter in December.
Established by King Edward III in 1348, the Order of the Garter is the oldest and most prestigious order of chivalry in Britain, comprising the Queen, senior Royal Family members, and 24 distinguished knights or ladies recognized for their contributions.
The recent sighting of Queen Elizabeth marks her first public appearance since the extravagant four-day Platinum Jubilee celebrations last week.
However, concerns about her health escalated after photos surfaced showing the monarch using crutches at the event early on Monday.
The image captured the frail 96-year-old alongside Prince Charles and Camilla, sparking worries among Britons about her well-being, declining mobility, and reduced public engagements.
Notably, the Queen had withdrawn from her Platinum Jubilee festivities, making only two public appearances on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Her absence was also noted during the state opening of Parliament last month.
The sight of Queen Elizabeth with crutches has reignited fears about her health, emphasizing the challenges she faces as she continues her royal duties.