King Charles reflects on loss of Elizabeth II in first anniversary of accession message

ok.co.uk:

King Charles has recorded a poignant message and released a favourite photograph of his mum to mark the first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death and his accession to throne.

In words written and audio spoken at Balmoral Castle where the Queen died on September 8 last year, the King said he recalled with “great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us”.Today (Friday) is a year since the nation’s longest-reigning monarch, who served as Queen for 70 years, died peacefully of old age at 96 just months after her Platinum Jubilee.The formal colour photograph chosen by King Charles was taken by Cecil Beaton and shows a young Queen, then 42, at an official portrait sitting in 1968.

She is standing sideways and smiling as she is photographed in her Garter robes and wearing the Grand Duchess Vladimir’s Tiara, made of 15 interlaced diamond circles.The King, in his short tribute, thanked the nation for the love and support shown to him and Queen Camilla during his first year as monarch, and pledged their continued service. “In marking the first anniversary of Her Late Majesty’s death and my accession, we recall with great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us,” the King said. “I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all.” His written message was signed Charles R.

Prince William and Kate are expected to attend a special service in St Davids Cathedral in St Davids, west Wales, according to reports, in memory of the Queen on an emotional day for the royal family.