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British RoyalsPrincess Anne and FamilyQueen Elizabeth II

Peter Phillips reveals sadness at not being able to hug The Queen after Prince Philip’s death

Peter Phillips

Nearly four months after the Duke of Edinburgh was laid to rest, Peter Phillips has revealed how he coped with the funeral. The eldest grandchild of The Queen said images of Her Majesty sitting alone at Prince Philip’s funeral became a very relatable moment for many during the pandemic.

Peter, the son of Anne, Princess Royal said many families who lost someone during the global health crisis know how difficult it has been to not be able to give grieving loved ones comfort during this time.

Our thoughts immediately went to my grandmother. We’ve been trying to support her as much as we can. Everybody saw the image of Her Majesty sitting alone. It would have been the same for any other family, the hardest part is not being able to hug those closest to the person who’s been lost.

“It’s the same for a lot of families. There have been some great sadnesses but at the same time you’ve got to try to take the positives out of these situations, whether that be new life, or happy memories, that’s what you’ve got to focus on.”

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The 43-year-old described the Duke as a “hugely influential figure in our lives. He was such a fixture of all of our lives. He is sorely missed,” Peter told the BBC.

“He lived a remarkable life and if any of us can even live half the life that he did, we would all be extraordinarily happy.”

With lockdown restrictions easing, Peter said The Queen has been able to spend more time with her family including her great-granddaughters, Savannah and Isla.

“They’re exceptionally lucky to have had two great-grandparents who have lived as long as they have. My children certainly appreciate that and know that it’s something special.”

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The Duke of Edinburgh died at the age of 99 on 9 April at Windsor Castle.

About author

My name is Sydney Zatz and I am a University of Iowa graduate. I graduated with a degree in journalism and sports studies, and a minor in sport and recreation management. A highlight of my college career was getting the chance to study abroad in London and experiencing royal history firsthand. I have a passion for royals, royal history, and journalism, which led me to want to write for Royal Central.