The Queen has presented a trusted member of staff with an honour as she continues to recuperate from a heavy cold at Sandringham.

The court circular – the daily diary of royal engagements – recorded that the monarch invested Ray Wheaton, the Queen's Page of the Chambers, with the insignia of a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order.

Known as an LVO, the honour is in the Queen's personal gift and bestowed independently of 10 Downing Street. It recognises service to the Royal Family and household.

The monarch, who missed church on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, is said to be up and about and dealing with her red boxes of official papers.