Queen Camilla welcomed seriously ill children to her London residence on Thursday for what has become a cherished annual tradition marking two decades.
Upon arriving at Clarence House, the Queen was met at the foot of the stairs by Father Christmas, who presented her with squeaky toys intended for her rescue dogs Moley and Bluebell.
Father Christmas explained: "It was presents for Moley and Bluebell from Mrs Claus. As there is nothing you can buy for the Queen."
The gathering at Clarence House brought together 10 youngsters with life-limiting conditions, supported by Helen and Douglas House and Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity, both of which have the Queen as their patron.
Queen left in stitches as Father Christmas brings dog gifts to Clarence House but nothing for Camilla
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Her Majesty personally served the festive meal, dishing up sausages, mashed potatoes and peas arranged into smiley faces, whilst also pouring gravy for her young guests and their families.
Speaking to the children afterwards, she said: "I say this every year, to me it's the start of Christmas. I haven't really got my head round it until I come here and I realise it's about to happen."
A winter wonderland had been created for the occasion, complete with Father Christmas, reindeer named Blitzen and Dancer, and a historic sleigh originally crafted by Prince Albert as a gift for Queen Victoria in 1842.
Father Christmas invited the Queen to climb aboard the state sleigh, which had been restored six years ago, with the children joining her on its plush red velvet seat.
Queen Camilla sat with children in Queen Victoria's sleigh
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Six-year-old Samuel Soremekun, who has sickle cell disease and autism, was among the first to sit beside Camilla, repeatedly exclaiming "It's the Queen, it's the Queen" whilst she held his hand.
The youngster provoked laughter from everyone present when he gestured towards a member of the royal entourage and enquired: "Is that the King?"
Major Rob Treasure, the Queen's newly appointed equerry and a platoon commander with 1st Battalion The Rifles, made his debut at the event by assisting the children with tree decorating duties.
Using his ceremonial sword, he carefully lifted ornaments chosen by the youngsters onto the highest branches, a task that has become part of the celebration's traditions.
Queen Camilla welcomed seriously ill children to Clarence House
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Queen Camilla and her latest dog, Moley
|SHONA WILLIAMS / THE ROYAL HOUSEHOLD
His predecessor, Major Ollie Plunket, who has served in the role since 2022, was also present to lend a hand with his own blade.
Major Plunket, who serves in The Rifles regiment where the Queen holds the position of colonel-in-chief, will officially conclude his appointment on December 30, when he will receive the Insignia of a Member of the Royal Victorian Order.
The Queen expressed deep admiration for the two charities supporting the children, telling her guests: "I'm so proud to be patron of two such wonderful charities.
"I know they do so much for the children and, of course, for the parents. I know they're literally lifesavers."
David Whittingham, chief executive of Helen and Douglas House, delivered a speech describing the annual gathering as "a celebration of community, kindness and hope" and offered his "heartfelt gratitude" for twenty years of royal hospitality.