The Earl and Countess of Wessex were in Manchester Thursday afternoon to pay tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Paying their respects to Edward’s late mother, the royal couple viewed the book of condolences set up by the city and saw cards and floral displays set up in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who died one week ago.
The royal couple then carried out a walkabout in St. Ann’s Square to meet mourners gathered.
One woman told reporters: “I just express my condolences to them and to their children. They said their children are feeling it very much as well.”
Sophie paused to meet another young man, Josh, who is non-verbal but holds great affection for the late queen. His mother told Sky News that Sophie came over to Josh and said “Nice to meet you, do you want me to take your flowers?” and that Josh asked her for a hug in return, which Sophie happily granted.
Edward and Sophie paid a visit to Manchester Cathedral to light a candle in memory of the late queen. Manchester Cathedral announced ahead of the visit that the church would be closed until early afternoon to give the royal couple space to visit.
Manchester City Council Leader Bev Craig said: “It’s just been an opportunity for us to pass on our condolences on behalf of the people of Manchester and for the Royal family to thank the people of Manchester for their thoughts.”
The city of Manchester will live stream Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral on Monday in the Cathedral Gardens, inside Manchester Cathedral and in the Exchange Square.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex aren’t the only royals carrying out engagements today. Though King Charles III and Queen Camilla are taking the day to privately reflect after a busy week, the Prince and Princess of Wales visited the mourners at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, while the Princess Royal and Sir Tim Laurence were in Glasgow to meet with representatives of some of the late queen’s patronages and meet mourners.
