BACK ON ROYAL DUTIES AFTER THE SUMMER THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES ATTEND A POIGNANT ACCESSION DAY SERVICE IN ST DAVIDS IN WALES

It was a place Queen Elizabeth II visited many times throughout her 70-year reign, so it was fitting that the Prince and Princess of Wales chose a visit to St Davids Cathedral in Pembrokeshire to remember her last week.

- EMILY NASH

On the first anniversary of her passing, Prince William and Kate laid white flowers in front of a portrait of the monarch inside the historic landmark and appeared visibly moved as they reflected on her life.

The royal couple had attended a moving Accession Day service that remembered Elizabeth "with both sadness and great affection", before stepping forward for the Princess to lay a bouquet of ivy, eucalyptus, white roses and waxflowers.

PRIVATE MOMENT

Bowing their heads in silence, they seemed lost in thought before moving on to look through a book of condolences signed by more than 3,000 people.

Later, during a reception with invited guests in the cathedral's cloisters, Kate spoke about the late monarch with flying instructor Patricia Mawuli Porter, saying: "We all have wonderful memories of her - we have to hold on to them."

Patricia, 35, from Haverfordwest, said afterwards: "It was lovely to speak to the Princess. She was like an old friend; she can chat to anyone."

The royal couple - back on royal duties after their summer break - received a rapturous welcome when they arrived at the 12th-century building at the heart of the UK's smallest city, after a delay caused by fog. The crowd broke into spontaneous applause, while one person shouted: "You're doing a great job."

REMEMBRANCE AND RESPECT

The Prince and Princess - Kate wearing a maroon Eponine coat, a matching hat by Sahar Millinery and pearl earrings that belonged to Elizabeth II - were greeted by members of the clergy before taking their seats. The private service was held in Welsh and English in front of a congregation of around 20 people.