TV viewers were delighted to see the Duchess of Edinburgh support BBC Children in Need as she learned more about the charity’s efforts to help young people overcome challenges.
Duchess Sophie appeared on BBC’s The One Show in a pre-recorded clip, to surprise “remarkable” 21-year-old Emily who has cerebral palsy.
Joining the young woman, Sophie walked alongside her on an epic walking challenge on The Long Walk leading up to the Windsor Castle.
The Long Walk was created by King Charles II in 1682-1685, and is a tree-lined avenue that stretches almost 2.5miles down to the castle.
Accompanying Emily, the royal gave words of encouragement: “You’re doing amazingly well.”
The young woman, who uses a wheelchair and walking sticks to assist with her mobility said: “I just did a whole lot of walking which was tough but I’m proud of myself for getting there.”
Speaking about The Long Walk, Sophie explained: “It’s called the Long Walk for a very good reason. It’s a very tough place to walk because it’s all in a straight line and you can see it. It doesn’t feel like it’s getting any shorter.”
Commenting on a clip uploaded onto X, one social media user wrote: “Well done, Emily!!! And super nice to see The Duchess of Edinburgh with her today.”
Another said: “Well done to Emily. Love the Duchess of Edinburgh supporting her in this amazing challenge…”
Another commented on the brave efforts of the young woman: “Wow! This young lady makes the rest of us feel soft!!”
The clip was posted on the BBC programme’s social media pages, alongside the caption: “A Royal surprise! Emily is joined by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh on day two of her epic @BBCCiN walking challenge.”
As the two reached the end of their journey, viewers watched Sophie praising Emily for her amazing effort.
She said: “You should be very proud of yourself. That’s a huge effort.”
During their chat, Emily said: “As I got older, I’m more in tune with the realities of our world so it’s been tough in that sense because I’ve had to integrate myself in a society that doesn’t necessarily accept people like me.”
Children in Need is a UK-based charity that aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people through grants and projects.
Duchess Sophie’s TV appearance on the BBC comes just days after she marked a royal first in leading the Armistice Service at the National Arboretum without her husband, Prince Edward.
