Britain is currently in sober reflection as today, September 8, 2023, marks the first anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
In a brief statement, King Charles III recalled the “great affection” for his mother, her life and public service. He also thanked the public for their support in his first year as Monarch.
“I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all,” he said.
Commemorations will be subtle, with the King not expected at any official engagement.
He and his wife Camilla attended Crathie Kirk, the late Queen’s place of worship, for private prayers and a moment of reflection, which lasted about 30 minutes.
They attended the private service accompanied by a small number of Balmoral guests, including the late Queen’s niece and nephew, Lady Sarah Chatto and the Earl of Snowdon.
After the service, they made their way over to speak to well-wishers gathered close to the church, including Balmoral Estate staff, members of the royal household and the public.
According to reports, the Prince and Princess of Wales; Prince William and Kate Middleton are expected to attend a special service in St Davids Cathedral in St Davids, west Wales, in memory of the Queen.
Their official Instagram account showed a collage of photos with the late Queen smilingly attending royal engagements. One image showed Elizabeth surrounded by her grandchildren.
“Today we remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. We all miss you. W & C,” the caption read.
The couple will be meeting members of the local community. Guests have been especially chosen, and include local people who met Queen Elizabeth during her visits to the city.
Queen Elizabeth II, who was on the throne for a record-breaking 70 years, died at Balmoral Castle aged 96, after a period of declining health on September 8, 2022.
The Queen was interred in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, Windsor, alongside her late husband, Prince Philip, who died in 2021, her father and mother and the ashes of her younger sister, Princess Margaret.
Tributes To The Late Monarch
British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak also paid tribute to the late Queen, reflecting on her legacy.
‘With the perspective of a year, the scale of Her Late Majesty’s service only seems greater,’ he said.
“Her devotion to the nations of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth only seems deeper. And our gratitude for such an extraordinary life of duty and dedication only continues to grow.”
Rishi Sunak
Sunak noted that he treasured his memories of meeting the Queen and was struck by her “wisdom, by her incredible warmth and grace,” as well as her “sharp wit.”
“People across the UK, whether they had the good fortune to meet Her Late Majesty or not, will be reflecting today on what she meant to them and the example she set for us all.”
Rishi Sunak
Additionally, the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust remembered the late Queen in a post on social media which included a smiling picture of Elizabeth II.
The charity noted, “We reflect on her commitment to a life of service to others. Her unwavering dedication to the Commonwealth and its people.”
Princess Eugenie also paid tribute to the late Monarch. She noted on Instagram, “Thinking of you today. Missing you so much but remembering what a life of service, love and dedication to everyone and to your family, who loved you so very much. Forever grateful to you. And always in my heart.”
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