Queen Camilla hosts Christmas at Clarence House for seriously ill children

Queen Camilla has welcomed special guests to Clarence House for a Christmas celebration hosted for the families of seriously ill children.

Camilla, 77, who has recently returned to duties following a serious chest infection, was all smiles as the delighted children and their carers were met by Santa and helped hang decorations on the lavish Christmas tree.

The special guests were invited to Clarence House via two of the royal's patronages – the Helen & Douglas House and Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity.

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Major Ollie Plunkett, the Queen's Equerry, used his sword to place baubles and other ornaments onto its branches as the children watched on.

According to Hello!, Camilla asked her equerry: "Ollie, how's the swordplay going?"

She then helped children Sadie Simons and Chloe Carter, both nine, place decorations on the tree, commenting; "My goodness me, you're doing brilliantly."

The Queen shared a video of the celebration on the royal family's official social media channels.

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"Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree! 🎄❄️Continuing a cherished annual tradition, The Queen welcomed children supported by @helenanddouglashouse and @roalddahlcharity to Clarence House to help decorate the Christmas tree," the description explained.

"We think they've done a wonderful job!🎶 🎅 Adding to the magic of the day, everyone was treated to some festive tunes from The Band and Bugles of The Rifles and enjoyed a delicious lunch.

"Father Christmas himself even made a surprise appearance!"

In the video we see the queen lead a young girl into the room to greet her equerry and view the tree. More children soon join her to decorate the tree.

Footage of Christmas cookies is shown as well as festive cupcakes.

By the time Santa arrived to hand out gifts the children and their carers were thoroughly enjoying the day.

Earlier in the week Queen Camilla joined The Royal Voluntary Service for a festive lunch.

"A fabulous festive spread! 🎄🍰Earlier today, The Queen joined lunch club diners, volunteers, staff and celebrity supporters for a @RoyalVolService 'Festive Spread'," the social media post read.

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"The charity's Christmas initiative encourages volunteers to provide festive lunches to people who may be spending the festive period alone.☃️ The Royal Voluntary Service is hosting over 70 'Festive Spread' events across the country, which guests can join for a free celebration."

King Charles has also been spreading festive cheer, visiting Battersea Power Station, home to the Curated Makers Christmas Market.

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"Founded by @KingsTrust Alumna, Megan Jones, the Christmas Market curates a selection of products from four local makers together on one market stall," the post explained.

"This afternoon, The King spoke to stall holders, young entrepreneurs, local community organisations and primary schools.His Majesty also met Rita Kelly, who worked in the Power Station in the 1950s, and officially opened the restored Power Station to the public in 2022."

The British royals will gather at Sandringham for their annual Christmas celebration this year, including the tradition walk to and from St Mary Magdalene Church.

It is hoped the Princess of Wales will join the walk as she continues her return to duties following the completion of her cancer treatment.

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