Anti-monarchy group Republic have accused the police of "obstructing" a protest after a last-minute decision to block access to Durham Cathedral ahead of King Charles and Queen Camilla's arrival to mark Maundy Thursday in the city. Durham University has decided to close the Palace Green "to prevent" anti-monarchy protesters gathering outside the cathedral, the campaigners have alleged.

Speaking for Republic, Graham Smith said: "Looks like Durham University are doing a masterclass in how not to organise an event. They’re also placing absurd restrictions on protest so plans are fluid at the moment."

Despite the disruption, there are huge crowds of well-wishers and supporters who have turned out in Durham to catch a glimpse of the King and Queen. Today's engagement to mark Maundy Thursday is especially poignant as King Charles was unable to join in with the annual celebration last year, following on from his cancer diagnosis.

Videos shared on Republic's social media show the group wearing bright yellow tops and holding placards which read 'Not My King', 'Down with the Crown' and 'Ditch the Duchies'.

Republic has become a frequent feature at large-scale royal events throughout King Charles's reign and are very vocal on social media.

Today's Royal Maundy Service commemorates Jesus's Last Supper when he washed the feet of his disciples as an act of humility the day before Good Friday.

The ceremony is a much-anticipated fixture on the royal calendar and normally sees the monarch, who is the head of the Church of England, present specially minted coins to people recognised for their community service.

Thursday's service comes one day after King Charles issued a heartfelt Easter message in which he reflected on people being capable of both "great cruelty and great kindness".

In a veiled reference to global conflicts, the King highlighted God's message that he "loved the world" and put his son on earth to show us that "love proved stronger than death". He also spotlights the three great virtues of "faith, hope and love" in a powerful message.

The King will be joined by Queen Camilla and other members of the Royal Family at St George's Chapel, Windsor on Sunday for the annual Easter Sunday Matins service.