The Prince and Princess of Wales travelled to Sandringham House in Norfolk today to view floral tributes and meet members of the public.
We've seen an enormously demanding schedule for the King and Queen Consort since Her late Majesty passed a week ago today. After the procession to Westminster Hall for the Queen's lying-in-state, Charles and Camilla returned to their country homes in Highgrove and Wiltshire, respectively, for a day of quiet contemplation and reflection. There has been almost no time to grieve in private or to take stock of the enormity of events. Today saw members of the family deployed across the UK to meet the public and thank them for their incredible support.
Sandringham was a fitting choice for William and Kate. Their country home, Anmer Hall, is there and they have spent much time in the area in recent years.
Over 100,000 tributes, cards, bouquets and teddy bears have been left over the past week.
"Sandringham House has been a royal residence for four generations of British monarchs for a period of more than 150 years, and has traditionally been where the Queen spent her Christmas break."
It comes as Buckingham Palace issued a statement of gratitude on behalf of the family. It read: "His Majesty The King and the Royal Family wish to send their sincere gratitude for the messages of condolence received from around the world. The Royal Family has been deeply moved by the global response and affection shown for The Queen as people join them in mourning the loss of Her Majesty."
During conversations with the crowd, Roya Nikkhah reports Prince William said: "I’m learning that she was everyone’s grandmother -- the way people have reacted." William said George very much understood the loss of his great-grandmother, but Charlotte and Louis less so.
'Sarah Tomlinson, 51, from the nearby town of Kings Lynn, came with her friend and the friend's baby.
"My friend's baby was the first jubilee baby to be born in Kings Lynn and named after Prince Louis," she says. "William came over and said how dashing he is in his outfit." The couple also "showed a real interest" in the baby and asked if he was sleeping through the night.
"I can't believe how together they are — they seem to be supporting us rather than us supporting them," Tomlinson adds.'
William told well-wishers the procession yesterday reminded him of his mother's funeral: "Doing the walk yesterday was challenging, it brought back a few memories, it's kind of one of these moments where you think to yourself I've prepared for this but I'm not that prepared. It's this weird kind of thing, because we knew she was 96."
"Doing the walk yesterday was challenging, it brought back a few memories".
— Sky News (@SkyNews) September 15, 2022
Prince William tells members of the public that he found yesterday's procession of the Queen's coffin difficult.
Latest: https://t.co/8AFWhoW82a
📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 pic.twitter.com/eaLW8YWAnX
'The Prince of Wales has spoken of how yesterday's procession brought back terribly sad memories of his mother’s funeral.
Speaking to crowds outside Sandringham House, where people had come to lay flowers at the gate, a mourner said the Prince spoke of how “difficult” yesterday had been.
Jane Wells, 54, from Lincolnshire, said: “He said how difficult it was yesterday and how it reminded him of his mum’s funeral... Catherine said it’s just been such a difficult time for all of them, for the whole family.”
Another crowd member told the emotional Prince she was close to tears, to which he replied: “Don’t cry now - you’ll start me.”
Kate told one well-wisher the family are all "sticking together".
Jill Clinton spoke to the Telegraph: "Catherine said to me that as a family -- and I did wonder what she meant by this -- that they’re all sticking together and sharing each other’s grief and helping each other cope." Kate also told Jill they are trying to keep things as "normal as possible for the children".
Kate accompanies a schoolgirl, appropriately, named Elizabeth, who wished to leave flowers.
It was an overwhelming moment for Elizabeth and one she will never forget.
This Howard pupil was overwhelmed with emotion being chosen by the Princess of Wales to put flowers and a toy corgi on the Norwich Gates, Sandringham..... it was an incredible moment for her which she greatly enjoyed and also an honour to help with the remembrance of The Queen. pic.twitter.com/cH4gFSBwFa
— Howard Junior School (@HowardJuniorSch) September 15, 2022
Williams speaks to pupils from Howard Junior School and the conversation was very much focused on Paddington.
It was the greatest honour for Howard pupils, Mr Hill and Ms Regester to meet The Prince of Wales at @sandringham1870 today...he mentioned about our Paddington we made and left as a memorial to The Queen yesterday..... #QueenElizabethII pic.twitter.com/jAZ3xoaRAA
— Howard Junior School (@HowardJuniorSch) September 15, 2022
William said he thinks Paddington is replacing the Corgis.
Moments of levity included selfies.
One well-wisher asked about Harry's birthday. The Sun reports:
"William laughed to one well-wisher: “It is his birthday today - you’re absolutely right, it is.”
Asked if he’d forgotten, the Prince chuckled, insisting: “No, I’ve not forgotten."
A private moment for the Prince and Princess.
A closer look at the sea of tributes.
Afterwards, Kensington Palace tweeted: "Thank you to everyone in Sandringham today."
In a tribute to Her late Majesty, the Princess wore a pair of her diamond and pearl earrings, which she has worn on a number of occasions over the past several years. Kate also wore her cross necklace.
Below, Her late Majesty wearing them during Silver Jubilee celebrations in 1977.
Meanwhile in Glasgow, there was an incredibly touching moment when a young lady handed the Princess Royal flowers. Anne had offered to place them with other tributes when she was told, "They're for you."
mums just sent me this of a wee lass giving princess anne some flowers in glasgow🥺 pic.twitter.com/9hZz3ZeJne
— al🏴 (@aleshiaingram) September 15, 2022
In Manchester, it was hugs and a sea of tributes as the Earl and Countess of Wessex visited.
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Buckingham Palace shared a full statement on plans for the Queen's funeral:
'His Majesty The King and the Royal Family wish to send their sincere gratitude for the messages of condolence received from around the world. The Royal Family has been deeply moved by the global response and affection shown for The Queen as people join them in mourning the loss of Her Majesty.
The State Funeral of Her Majesty The Queen will take place at Westminster Abbey on Monday, 19th September at 1100hrs BST. A Committal Service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, will take place later the same day at 1600hrs. Presently, The Queen Lies-in-State in Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster, having arrived in Procession from Buckingham Palace yesterday afternoon, Wednesday 14th September.
Elements of the State Funeral Service and the associated ceremonial arrangements will pay tribute to The Queen’s extraordinary reign, and Her Majesty’s remarkable life of service as Head of State, Nation and Commonwealth.
Presently, a continuous Vigil of Her Majesty’s Coffin is being kept by The King's Body Guards at the Palace of Westminster. Each Watch lasts for six hours, with individuals within those Watches keeping Vigil for 20 minutes.
The Coffin is draped with the Royal Standard, on which lie the Instruments of State, the Imperial State Crown, the Orb and the Sceptre, where they will remain for the duration of the State Funeral and Committal Service.
A Vigil around the Coffin will be held by The King, The Princess Royal, The Duke of York, and The Earl of Wessex at 1930hrs tomorrow evening, Friday 16th September.
On the morning of the State Funeral, the Lying-in-State will end at 0630hrs as the final members of the public are admitted.
At 1044hrs the Coffin will be borne in Procession on the State Gun Carriage of the Royal Navy from the Palace of Westminster to Westminster Abbey for the State Funeral.
Immediately following the Coffin will be The King, Members of the Royal Family and members of The King’s Household.
The Procession will arrive at the West Gate of Westminster Abbey at 1052hrs where the Bearer Party will lift the coffin from the State Gun Carriage and carry it into the Abbey for the State Funeral Service.
The State Funeral Service will be attended by Heads of State and Overseas Government Representatives, including Foreign Royal Families, Governors General and Realm Prime Ministers. Other representatives of the Realms and the Commonwealth, the Orders of Chivalry including recipients of the Victoria Cross and George Cross, Government, Parliament, devolved Parliaments and Assemblies, the Church, and Her Majesty’s Patronages will form the congregation, along with other public representatives.
Almost 200 people who were recognised in The Queen’s Birthday Honours earlier this year will also join the congregation, including those who made extraordinary contributions to the response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and have volunteered in their local communities.
The State Funeral Service will be conducted by the Dean of Westminster. During the Service, the Prime Minister and the Secretary General of the Commonwealth will read Lessons. The Archbishop of York, the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and the Free Churches Moderator will say Prayers. The Sermon will be given by the Archbishop of Canterbury, who will also give the Commendation. The Dean of Westminster will then pronounce the Blessing.
Towards the end of the Service, at approximately 1155hrs, Last Post will sound followed by Two Minute’s Silence to be observed in the Abbey, and throughout the United Kingdom. The National Anthem will bring the State Funeral Service to a close at approximately 12 noon.
After the Service, Her Majesty’s Coffin will be borne through the Abbey, returning to the State Gun Carriage for the Procession to Wellington Arch, Hyde Park Corner, arriving at 1300hrs. The King and Members of the Royal Family will again follow The Queen’s Coffin in Procession. The Procession will include detachments from the Armed Forces of the Commonwealth. Minute Guns will be fired in Hyde Park by The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, and Big Ben will toll throughout the duration of the Procession.
At Wellington Arch, the Coffin will be transferred to the State Hearse to travel to Windsor. As the State Hearse departs Wellington Arch, the Parade will give a Royal Salute and the National Anthem will be played. His Majesty The King and Members of the Royal Family will then depart for Windsor.
When the Coffin reaches Windsor, the State Hearse will slow to join a Procession to be formed up on Albert Road to travel via the Long Walk to St George’s Chapel, Windsor for the Committal Service. Members of the Royal Family will join the Procession in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle. Minute Guns will be fired on the East Lawn, Windsor Castle by The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, and Sebastopol Bell and the Curfew Tower Bell will be tolled.
The Procession will halt at the bottom of the West Steps of St. George's Chapel where a Guard of Honour, found by the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, will be mounted. The Queen’s Coffin will be borne in Procession into the Chapel.
The Committal Service will begin at 1600hrs, and alongside His Majesty The King and Members of the Royal Family, the congregation will be made up of past and present members of The Queen’s Household, including from the private estates. Also in attendance will be Governors General and Realm Prime Ministers.
The Service will be conducted by the Dean of Windsor, with prayers said by the Rector of Sandringham, the Minister of Crathie Kirk and the Chaplain of Windsor Great Park. The Choir of St George’s Chapel will sing during the Service.
Prior to the final Hymn, the Imperial State Crown, the Orb and the Sceptre will be removed from Her Majesty The Queen’s Coffin, and placed on the Altar. At the end of the final Hymn, The King will place The Queen's Company Camp Colour of the Grenadier Guards on Her Majesty’s Coffin. At the same time, The Lord Chamberlain will "break" his Wand of Office and place it on the Coffin.
As The Queen’s Coffin is lowered into the Royal Vault, the Dean of Windsor will say a Psalm and the Commendation before Garter King of Arms pronounces Her Majesty’s styles and titles.
The Sovereign’s Piper will play a Lament and The Archbishop of Canterbury will pronounce the Blessing. The National Anthem will be sung at the conclusion of the Service.
A Private Burial will take place in The King George VI Memorial Chapel later that evening, conducted by the Dean of Windsor.
The Queen is to be buried together with The Duke of Edinburgh'.
On Sunday, the King will host a State event at Buckingham Palace to welcome heads of state and overseas guests. I would imagine we'll see William and Kate there. The Queen's children will also hold a vigil at Westminster Hall tomorrow evening at 7.30 pm.
Thank you, Charlotte, for your work on this blog. I know you are tired. I hope that you are not overwhelmed/
ReplyDeleteThank you, I appreciate it. It's truly unlike anything I've experienced in blogging.
DeleteI was thinking about you. You've covered weddings and crazy times when both W&K and H&M were on the move, but this is so intense and so involved. You're doing a fantastic job -- I haven't looked for news anywhere else.
DeleteWell said Anon and Alison. Charlotte, credit where due, you really have done a fantastic job. All fact, the words you use and as I've mentioned before you have a great eye for a beautiful picture. I hope like The King has done, you will take a day off before the funeral on Monday. S. ☺
DeleteI impressed how the Royal family continues to carry on despite the grief they are experiencing. It seems like talking to the other mourners also helps them heal and keep them busy. On another note, I cannot get over how the news articles keep referring to the Princess of Wales as Kate Middleton. At this point, it is highly disrespectful. I no longer click on any of these articles.
ReplyDeleteI agree
DeleteAgree. Show that Lady the respect that she has earned, Let alone the titles she now holds. S. ☺
DeleteThis is so beautiful and touching. Thank you !
ReplyDeleteThat was very nice of W&K to visit the crowd. Things have gotten more relaxed and more "real" in the past years, and I think their honest exchange with the well-wishers is healthy for both W&K and the public. It's good to see W&K more relaxed.
ReplyDeleteThey are wonderful representatives of the Royal Family and it is so good that King Charles has them for support as the Prince and Princess of Wales. They are all going to be great in their new roles. Long Live the King.
ReplyDeleteChristmas Easter and summer holidays will be tough, for a while. The most important person is not with anymore. css
ReplyDeleteAnother great post Charlotte. Thank you for all of the information! I truly hope you're getting some rest from trying to keep up on the ongoing developments with The Queen's funeral and the ongoings of the Royal Family this week. A week in and it's still hard to believe that Her Majesty is gone. HJC
ReplyDeleteCharlotte!! I don’t know how you do it! I’d be crying through my typing causing all kinds of grammatical errors. It’s been absolutely humbling to bear witness to how everything has been unfolding for those paying their respects to their beloved Queen and how meticulous everyone taking part in the viewing of Her Majesty’s coffin. 🖤
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
Thank you for all you do. I know this may not be the right time to ask but will you be changing the name of your blog since Kate is now a princess?
ReplyDeleteHello, Yes, after the mourning period.
DeleteFor some time now I‘be wanted to post and thank you, Charlotte, for all your hard work and dedication to this blog. I’ve been following since before George was born (although I believe I have only commented once before). Your blog is a wonderful little place on social media where people show respect and kindness to each other. Something very much needed especially in the times we are living in. You are my “go to place” for all things royal. Thanks again.
ReplyDelete~ Barb from Canada
Charlotte asked for only respect and kindness here a while back. Who needs the negative with the world we are living in at the moment. S. ☺
DeleteThank you Barb!
ReplyDeleteThat lovely moment between Princess Anne and the young fan reminded me of a similar scene in the movie The Queen! Thank you for all your updates over the past week, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad Prince William mentioned about walking behind the coffin. It really never leaves you. I thought of Diana as well looking at her two boys. My prayer is that the memories of that shared grief and love there will help their relationship. Very nice touch to wear the silver jubilee pearls today. Whenever I see one of them wearing a piece of her jewellery, I will smile and think of the late Queen. S. ☺
ReplyDeleteI forgot to mention. I read tonight all eight Grandchildren will form a guard of honour for the late Queen Saturday night. It's only right that they are all there. S. ☺
ReplyDeleteYes. And for an institution that has been accused of misogyny during the last couple of years they’re truly showing they’re not. See Anne, Zara, B, E and Louise as examples
DeleteAlways lovely to see them, and such a meaningful location being so close to Their country home. They sure are skilled with communication and giving their time. I hope they felt supported by all the well wishers. Thank you Charlotte for all your incredible research and beautiful writing! I know it’s exhausting this week, but I look forward to each post! :) Sue
ReplyDeleteQuestion for Charlotte: It looks like the men often wear navy suits, even when the women are wearing black. Is that just the lighting? Or if they do, why? Why not wear a black suit?
ReplyDeleteI noticed that for the late Queen’s final departure from Buckingham Palace the times were listed in standard time and now, as more usually is done, the times for the funeral are listed in military time. I thought for all royal events they exclusively use military time. Is this merely an error? Is there tradition behind this? Did the procession commence precisely at 2:22 p.m. because we are in 2022? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Charlotte. Your coverage has been excellent.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, thank you for all of your great work.
ReplyDeleteDid I read correctly the King and Queen Consort went to separate homes?
Thanks
Hello, yes, Ray Mill is a place for Camilla to kick back and cherish time with her grandchildren. My understanding has always been Charles keeps an utterly punishing schedule, so it gives Camilla a bit of downtime.
Deleteprincess anne prince edward and counters wessex and prince and princess of wales are modern represent the royals
ReplyDeleteThis has always been my go to place for all things about the British Royal Family. I know that not only will I find the best information about what's happening here, but also history about what's happening and a frank opinion on things from someone who lives in the UK and has a finger on the pulse of the country and cares about the BRF! Thank you again, Charlotte, for your wonderful coverage. I was just wondering where I should send a card of sympathy. I wasn't sure if I should send it to Buckingham Palace or Kensington Palace or Windsor Castle or Adelaide Cottage. Thanks for letting me know. I am keeping the entire family of QEII in my prayers that they will hold up for the next few days and get some time to reflect and connect with each other.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much IBR. It means a great deal to me.
DeleteThere is an online option here: https://www.royal.uk/send-message-condolence
KP remains William and Kate's official residence, so all mail should be directed there.
Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales
Kensington Palace
London
W8 4PU
The video clips of the interactions of the public with the Royals were very welcome indeed. I felt like I was right there! Thank you for including them. And for all your fine reporting on this blog.
ReplyDeleteThe Princess of Wales looked lovely, very appropriately dressed, elegant. The wonderful moment with the Princess Royal and the little girl, so moving. She is such a humble and dignified Princess and lady; I have much admiration for her.
ReplyDeleteHello Charlotte: As always, these are wonderful posts. Also, I am a longtime subscriber of your blog but am no longer receiving your emails. When I tried to subscribe, the subscribe button brings me to an “RSS feed” page/app. Can you kindly assist? Thank you! Patricia, Minneapolis, MN USA
ReplyDeleteHello Patricia, Blogger has permanently disabled the 'Follow By Email' widget. I am actively searching for a replacement and apologise for the inconvenience.
DeleteFirst, thank you for all your efforts during this trying time. Your blog is posting wonderfully researched pieces!
ReplyDeleteSecond, why does Prince William continue to wear a blue suit? Why isn’t he wearing black like his wife during this event?
unbearable to do this when you are grieving but Kate and Wills and the rest keep smiling through the pain it is admirable. i couldn't do it. wills is great with kids talking to them like that at their level. kate is great too. thanks charlotte for sharing these videos including the one of the flowers going to Anne.
ReplyDelete