Duchess Sophie stepped out in Birmingham today on behalf of King Charles as the city marked 50 years since two fatal pub bombings.
The Duchess of Edinburgh, 59, wore a long khaki green coat on Thursday as she attended the memorial event in Birmingham New Street Station.
As well as stepping in for her brother-in-law by visiting the city, the duchess also read a speech on the monarch’s behalf, which described the 1974 bombings as a “dreadful attack” that remains in his thoughts.
The two bombs, which were detonated in two pubs – the Mulberry Bush and the Tavern in the Town – killed 21 people and injured another 220.
In a message written by the King, 75, read by Sophie, His Majesty said: “As you come together to mark fifty years since the terrible events of 21st November 1974, my wife and I would like to take this opportunity to say that you, and all those affected by this dreadful attack, remain very much in our thoughts.
“Today we remember the twenty-one people who lost their lives so cruelly and all who were injured, many of them grievously. We also pay heartfelt tribute to those who rushed to their aid.
“What happened on this day fifty years ago was one of so many dreadful tragedies in a devastating period that touched us all, many of us very personally.
“To see the brave strides forward that have since been made towards lasting peace and meaningful reconciliation, and the close bonds of love and friendship which now bind this city together, makes me exceptionally proud and thankful.”
A year after the 1974 bombings, six men, who came to be known as the Birmingham Six, were convicted of murder and jailed for life.
However, the evidence against them was discredited and they were freed on appeal in 1991.
While the IRA has never officially admitted responsibility, they are widely believed to be behind the attacks.
King Charles apologised in his message, read out by the duchess, for not being able to attend the event himself.
The monarch referred to Birmingham as a “wonderful city” as he sent his “best wishes” to everyone affected by the event.
