The Kent Messenger Group is offering readers the chance of a ring-side view of the Queen’s visit to Canterbury on Maundy Thursday.

An offer of 850 special places on March 28 came through an approach from the Lord Lieutenant’s office earlier this year.

A privileged vantage point for 300 of them has been set aside in the South Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral, where the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will arrive for the Maundy service.

A further 550 places have been allocated at Green Court, to the north of the cathedral, which the Royal party will pass by after the service, on their way to the Deanery.

Readers lucky enough to get a pass will get the best view of the Queen in Kent during her Golden Jubilee year. They may also get to talk to the Queen, Prince Philip or the retiring Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey, as they walk past.

Among the 2,000 congregation will be men and women chosen to receive Maundy money in recognition of their Christian service to church and community.

Simon Irwin, associate director – editorial, at the Kent Messenger Group said: “We are thrilled that our titles and our readers have been given such a unique opportunity to be part of this historic occasion.

“What better way could there be of celebrating the Queen’s 50 glorious years, than by seeing Her Majesty in person on this special visit to Kent?”

In the week beginning February 11, the KM Group’s weekly paid-fors, along with the free Extra titles in Thanet and Tunbridge Wells ran Royal Maundy ballot coupons, inviting readers to be part of the occasion.

The choice of titles will ensure that an even spread of readers throughout the county can participate in the occasion.

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail [email protected]