King Charles has faced a difficult few months as he returned to public duties for the first time since his cancer diagnosis.

King Charles has returned to public duties following his cancer diagnosis (Image: Getty)

King Charles has had one secret hobby seeing him through a difficult start to 2024 as he returns to public duties following his shock cancer diagnosis.

The Royal Family has faced a number of setbacks this year, with Princess Kate also announcing she was undergoing treatment for cancer in March.

But despite taking a break from public duties, said to have left Charles “frustrated”, a royal expert revealed how he coped with a challenging few months.

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: “We are told he spent the weekend at Highgrove gardening and reflecting. And gardening is a wonderful way to ponder on life and all it brings.

“Obviously the King is annoyed and frustrated by the way his cancer diagnosis has stopped him in his tracks. But this is the time of year when the garden springs into life and colour; there is new growth all around and, with that, comes new hope.

King Charles is said to have become interested in gardening (Image: Getty)

“His doctors are pleased with his progress and, although he must be so worried about his beloved daughter-in-law, Catherine, he can relax knowing that she is at last getting the peace and privacy she requested.”

Ahead of his Coronation, King Charles faced criticism for his time as the Prince of Wales when he was involved in a number of scandals.

Jennie added: “There had been predictions that the change of reign would bring upset and turmoil. It didn’t happen.

“The King can look back today on a transition smoother than anyone could have hoped, and polling figures that show most people think he’s doing a good job and that the country is better with a monarchy.

“I think he will also reflect on how his Queen, who was crowned alongside him a year ago, has done a remarkable job in this difficult year and has won the admiration of many. Now THAT will make Charles the happiest man alive!”

Buckingham Palace confirmed the monarch would be returning to public duties in a statement, saying his medical team are “encouraged by the progress made so far”.

It added: “Forthcoming engagements will be adapted where necessary to minimise any risks to His Majesty’s continued recovery. The pacing of the King’s programme will be carefully calibrated as his recovery continues, in close consultation with his medical team.”