They were childhood companions with a bond that stretched back decades. The Duke of Kent was at the side of Queen Elizabeth II throughout her reign and, as the first Christmas since her death began, he was prominent at a special dedication to Her Late Majesty.
The Duke joined the Royal Family at the carol service at Westminster Abbey organised by the Princess of Wales which paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and her life of service.
Prince Edward joined in the remembrance for his cousin, sitting directly behind the Princess of Wales as the service began. Another of their cousins, the Duke of Gloucester, also joined the Royal Family for this special tribute.
The Princess of Wales said ahead of the carol service that it would be dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II and the values she held so important during her life and reign, including duty, faith and compassion.
The Prince of Wales gave a reading during the ceremony, taken from one of his grandmother’s Christmas speeches.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla led the Royal Family at the service. Prince George and Princess Charlotte joined their parents while the Countess of Wessex sat in the front row, next to the Princess of Wales.
Princess Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, and Princess Eugenie along with her husband, Jack Brooksbank, also took part as did Zara and Mike Tindall.
The Christmas carol service will be broadcast on ITV1 on December 15th 2022.
