King Charles issues emotional tribute to Queen on first anniversary of her death
King Charles spoke of his mother's 'long life and devoted service'
King Charles has issued a poignant statement to the nation on the first anniversary of the Queen's death.
A year ago today (September 8), the country and the world reacted with grief and sorrow at the news of Queen Elizabeth II's passing. Now, on the anniversary of that day, King Charles has paid tribute to his mother and the late monarch in an emotional tribute.
The King thanked people across the globe for their support after he took over her role as sovereign, and reaffirmed his pledge to devote his life to service as King, reports The Mirror.
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Politicians joined in the tributes to the Queen as the country prepared to reflect on her passing. Charles said: “In marking the first anniversary of Her late Majesty’s death and my accession, we recall with great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us.
“I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all.” The King has remained at Balmoral in Scotland, where the Queen died, to spend time “quietly reflecting” on his loss, as well as his first 12 months as sovereign and “looking forward to the future”.
As part of the commemorations, the Palace today released an image of the Queen personally selected by Charles. It was taken on October 16, 1968, as part of an official sitting granted to Cecil Beaton, who passed away in 1980. The snap has not been released before now but was first shown at the National Portrait Gallery from 1968 to 1969, as part of its first photographic exhibition of Beaton Portraits 1928-68.
It was taken at the Palace when the Queen was 42. She was wearing her Garter robes and the Grand Duchess Vladimir’s Tiara. Rishi Sunak said the anniversary of the monarch’s death allows us to reflect on “the scale of her service” which “only seems greater”. The PM added: “Her devotion to the nations of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth only seems deeper.
And our gratitude for such an extraordinary life of duty and dedication only continues to grow.” Keir Starmer told how the queues to see the late Queen lying in state showed she “always enjoyed a special bond with her people”. The Labour leader added: “It was a relationship built from her understanding that service of this nation is the thread that unites sovereign and subject.
“So, as we reflect on her legacy again today, let us embrace that spirit of public service as our guide towards a better future.” Former PM Liz Truss told how the Queen appeared frail but “mentally alert” when she met her at Balmoral just two days before she passed away. It was her final official engagement. She was in Scotland to be appointed PM as the monarch’s health meant she could not travel to London.
Ms Truss said: “She was absolutely on top of what was happening. She was very determined to do her duty, right to the end.”