Bishop takes on Maundy money role

The Rt Rev John Inge has become the Lord High Almoner, a title which dates back to the Middle Ages. In centuries past holders of the post scattered two pence pieces in places where the monarch was due to pass to create welcoming crowds.

The title holder would also hand out the first dish from the Monarch’s table to the poor.

Today the holder of the post organises the annual Royal Maundy Service where the Queen distributes Maundy money to retired pensioners in recognition of their service to the church and the community.

Dr Inge was appointed Bishop of Huntingdon in 2003 and Bishop of Worcester five years later. He replaces as Lord High Almoner the former Bishop of Manchester the Right Reverend Nigel McCulloch, who retired last month.