The Queen has been pictured using a walking stick at a Westminster Abbey service – believed to be the first time she has used one at a major public event.

The 95-year-old monarch was handed the stick after stepping from her state limousine and when walking to her seat for the event, marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion.

She used the stick again as she left and appeared to be moving freely.

The Queen, who is the patron of the Royal British Legion, did not arrive by the traditional great west door, but via the poet’s yard entrance – a shorter route to her seat.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment, but the changes are understood to be for the Queen’s comfort.

Adjustments have been made to major events before to aid the Queen’s comfort.

In 2016, she used a lift, rather than the 26-step royal staircase at the Sovereign’s Entrance, to enter parliament for the state opening.

She has also not worn the heavy Imperial State Crown since 2016, with it now placed on a red and gold velvet cushion during proceedings.

The Queen was pictured using a stick in 2003, but this was after surgery to remove torn cartilage in her right knee.

She left King Edward VII’s Hospital using a heavy-duty one after the operation, and used a wooden one at a Sandringham church service two weeks later.

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