King Charles' returns to first public duties since cancer diagnosis

King Charles III has been out and about doing his public duties for the first time since being diagnosed with cancer.

The King and Queen Camilla smiled and waved as they visited a specialist cancer centre in London.

The royals also gave presents to children on their way out, with one young patient being given a set of books by Queen Camilla as well as a big chocolate coin.

Buckingham palace announced the King was diagnosed with a form of cancer back in February and his doctors are said to be "very encouraged" by how his treatment is going.

• You can watch Newsround's special film about the life of King Charles III here

The King looked to be in good spirits as he greeted cancer patients at University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre, London

The King temporarily stepped back from public-facing duties in February when it was announced the 75-year-old was undergoing treatment for cancer.

His medical team are "pleased" with the progress he has made with his cancer treatment.

• You can find out more about cancer and how it is treated in this Operation Ouch film

The palace said it's "too early to say" how the monarch will continue with treatment but that the King is looking forward to returning to more public events.

During the engagement it was announced King Charles is the new patron of Cancer Research UK - a charity for research into prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

The King also looked at the equipment at the specialist centre before sitting down with and chatting to patients undergoing treatment there.

King Charles looked to be in good spirits as he spoke to staff, patients and visitors at the hospital.