Edward and Sophie become first royals to visit Queen Elizabeth's memorial statue

14 May 2024 , 19:57

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Duke and Duchess Edinburgh reflected at the statue of Queen Elizabeth II (Image: Cover Images)

Prince Edward and Sophie braved the rain to become the first members of the royal family to visit a new memorial statue of Queen Elizabeth II today.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh visited Oakham, Rutland, and were snapped beside the imposing seven-foot bronze statue of the long-serving monarch, who died aged 96 in September 2022. The statue, which is in Oakham's library, even features her beloved corgis at her feet.

Sophie, 59, couldn't resist stroking the corgis during the visit, which was the first time any of the royals have been to the statue on an official engagement. Sophie and 60-year-old Edward took a moment to look at the statue in silence and take in the meaningful tribute to the late monarch. Sophie was dressed for the rainy weather in a smart cream coat, which she paired with green straight-leg trousers and an orange bag.

Edward and Sophie were welcomed warmly by residents of Oakham, Rutland (Cover Images)

Edward also dressed smartly for the occasion, adding a tweed blazer to his look. The Prince and duchess arrived at Oakham by helicopter before making their way to Oakham Castle just after 11am, where they met children from primary schools in Rutland and neighbouring Leicestershire.

The leader of the Oakham Town Council and presented a double horseshoe - a tradition for royals visiting the area. Despite the inclement weather, crowds flocked to see the younger brother of King Charles and waved Union Jack flags.

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Duke and Duchess Edinburgh reflected at the statue of Queen Elizabeth II (Cover Images)

Prince Edward showed his friendly and personable nature as he spoke to locals at the Salon in Oakham, who had sat underneath an umbrella to watch him go by. Edward joked: "Is this home, is it?" as the delighted crowd burst into laughter. The couple are the first royals to visit the statue since it was unveiled on April 21, which would have been the late Queen's 98th birthday.

The stunning memorial depicts a youthful Queen Elizabeth - who stood at just 5ft 4in - in flowing regal robes with three loyal corgi companions at her feet, and one can be seen peeking out from the creases. It serves as a permanent reminder to her remarkable 70-year reign and her enduring affection for the Pembroke Welsh breed.

Bradley Jolly