King's prayers as nation unites in remembrance

Royals release new tributes one year after Queen’s death

- Robert Jobson

THE King led the nation in prayer today one year after the death of his mother, Elizabeth II.

The King, accompanied by Queen Camilla, marked Her Late Majesty's passing quietly with private prayers and a moment of reflection at Crathie Kirk, the parish church near the Balmoral estate where the late Queen worshipped.

The service was a deeply personal moment for the King, who became sovereign when his mother peacefully died last year at Balmoral on September 8, aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.

The King, dressed in a red tartan kilt, and Queen Camilla, in a blue day dress and cardigan, made the short journey by car from the estate just before 10am to the Scottish church where monarchs have worshipped since Queen Victoria. They were joined by Lady Sarah Chatto and the Earl of Snowdon.

The Late Queen was close to her sister Princess Margaret's children, especially Lady Sarah. The earl was accompanied by his daughter Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones, and Lady Sarah by her husband Daniel and children Samuel and Arthur.

A small group of Balmoral estate workers and members of the public, including a handful of pupils from Crathie Primary School, gathered close to the church to pay their respects. After the 30 minute service, the King and Queen made their way over to speak to well-wishers who had gathered close to the church.