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The Queen at a memorial service in Westminster Abbey, London
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ARTHUR EDWARDS / Getty Images
For the first time in many years, Queen Elizabeth II used a cane as a walking aid at a major public appearance. The British Queen used the device at a memorial service in London's Westminster Abbey, as can be seen in photos. The now 95-year-old was accompanied by her daughter Princess Anne. British media reported it was the first time the Queen had used a stick for non-medical reasons.
The walker was given to the monarch after she got out of her limousine.
Then the Queen went to her seat. She also used the stick on the way back.
As the PA news agency reported, her car did not stop at the main portal of the cathedral, as usual, but at an entrance from which it is closer to her place.
The measures would be for your convenience, PA continued.
The palace, however, did not want to comment on the help.
Queen of England for almost 70 years
In 2003 and 2004, the Queen used a stick after a knee operation.
Since then, however, she has always moved without a walker.
The Daily Mail speculated that the stick should now help her over the uneven pavement at the entrance.
Elizabeth II, whose husband Prince Philip died in April shortly before his 100th birthday, has been Queen of England for almost 70 years.
Despite her advanced age, she still fulfills this position.
Even on vacation, which she has always been spending without Prince Philip at her residence Schloss Balmoral in the Scottish Highlands for the first time this summer, she should not forego her duties: According to the PA news agency, the Queen receives legal documents, current information and other things every day important documents for inspection, which are sent to her in red boxes by couriers.
bam / dpa