Princess Kate and Prince William have stepped out in London today to attend Katharine, The Duchess of Kent’s funeral. The Prince and Princess of Wales, dressed in black, looked solemn as they arrived at Westminster Cathedral ahead of the service, which is set to begin at 2pm.
Kensington Palace announced the couple’s attendance this morning, with William and Kate, both 43, joining other royals for the service. This includes King Charles, 76, who arrived alone as Queen Camilla pulled out just hours ago as a result of a health issue.
William and Kate’s three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis have not accompanied their parents to the funeral today, and are instead believed to be at school.
Other royals to attend include the Duchess of Kent’s husband The Duke of Kent, and the late duchess’ children and grandchildren.
The funeral at Westminster Cathedral is a significant occasion for the royals, marking the first Catholic funeral held for a member of the Royal Family since the Reformation. The funeral comes 12 days after the duchess sadly passed away at her Kensington Palace home at the age of 92.
Buckingham Palace confirmed her death on September 5, writing: “It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.
“The King and Queen and all Members of The Royal Family join The Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly The Duchess’s life-long devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”
After the service, the late duchess’ coffin will be taken to the Royal Burial Ground in Windsor, which will be her final resting place.
The funeral will be a private event as the duchess had not been a working royal since 2002.