91Èȱ¬

Today, for the first time in the eight-century history of the ceremony, the Royal Maundy Service will be held outside of England and Wales. Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh is the venue for this year's service, with the Queen distributing the Maundy Money to 164 pensioners from across Northern Ireland. Her Majesty will be accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, and supported by the Queen's Bodyguard of the Yeomen of the Guard. The Choir of Saint Patrick's will join musical forces with the Choir of the Chapel Royal, under the direction of Andrew Gant. The four church leaders, including Cardinal Sean Brady, will take part and pronounce the Blessing together at the close of the service. And you can watch this unique and historic ceremony live on 91Èȱ¬ One NI from 11.15 this morning (with an edited highlights programme later tonight). I've been researching the history of the service and the ceremony at its heart for a few days in preparation for presenting our coverage from a terrific vantage point at the West Door of the Cathedral.