King Charles and Queen Camilla were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at the annual Commonwealth Day service today. The couple, who have been married since 1972, arrived at Westminster Abbey arm-in-arm. The Duchess of Gloucester, who is known for her quiet devotion to public service, has attended an astounding 5,000 engagements during her 40 years of service. The Duke of Gloucester is the first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Birgitte has been married to Richard, who is grandson of King George V and Queen Mary, since 1972. The pair met at Cambridge when she came over to the UK to work after growing up in Denmark. Despite largely living a life away from the spotlight, the Duchess, 78, has attended various engagements – some alongside Queen Camilla. She helped Camilla hand out The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes to universities and colleges at the start of last year.
King Charles and Queen Camilla joined a total of 2,000 guests from all over the Commonwealth to hear music and poetry.
In his Commonwealth Day message, which was printed in the programme, the King paid tribute to the “untold sacrifice and selflessness” of Commonwealth forces who answered the call to fight with Britain and its allies in the Second World War.
The King, who is head of the Commonwealth, gave an annual address to the family of 56 nations. The King was not in attendance at last year’s service due to cancer treatment. He, instead, pre-recorded a video message.
The service is set to focus on the theme of ‘Together We Thrive’ – which celebrates the spirit of the Commonwealth- and wil be made up of readings and performances. These will all highlight the importance of fostering strong and connected communities that support and empower their members. The Princess of Wales and King Charles are both attending the Commonwealth Day service for the first time in two years due to undergoing cancer treatments last year.