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They were joined by an array of figures including former Prime
Ministers John Major and Gordon Brown, Joanna Lumley and Idris
Elba, who played Nelson in the biopic released last year.
In December, the inspirational icon passed away after a long battle
with his health. Prince Charles joined dignities and celebrities
from around the world as he travelled to South Africa to represent
Britain and the Royal Family.
In a statement released after his death, the Prince of Wales
honoured the former leader’s dedication and “zest for life”.
“Mr Mandela was the embodiment of courage and reconciliation,”
Charles said in a statement. “He was also a man of great humour and
had a real zest for life. With his passing, there will be an
immense void not only in his family’s lives, but also in those of
all South Africans.
“The world has lost an inspired leader and a great man. My family
and I are profoundly saddened and our thoughts and prayers are with
his family.”
Her Majesty also released a statement shortly after Mandela’s
death, recalling the “great warmth” of her meetings with Mr
Mandela, of who called Elizabeth a “dear friend”.
“The Queen was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Nelson
Mandela last night. He worked tirelessly for the good of his
country, and his legacy is the peaceful South Africa we see today,”
the statement read.
“Her Majesty remembers with great warmth her meetings with Mr
Mandela and sends her sincere condolences to his family and the
people of South Africa at this very sad time.”]]>
