Alone with her agony
THE Queen wiped away a tear as she sat alone while saying farewell to her beloved husband of 73 years yesterday.
The Duke of Edinburgh was laid to rest in the Royal Vault of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, after a moving funeral watched by millions worldwide.
Her Majesty cut a lonely figure as she sat with her head bowed in grief while the coffin was placed in front of her.
The service paid tribute to Philip’s loyalty to her.
The Dean of
Windsor blessed his “kindness, humour and humanity” and added: “We have been inspired by his unwavering loyalty to our Queen, by his service to the nation and the Commonwealth, by his courage, fortitude and faith.”
The coffin descended in front of just 30 members of the Royal Family as the naval call to arms, Action Stations, was played by Royal Marines buglers.
The funeral, much of which was planned by Philip himself, was peppered with nods to his military service. Over 730 members of the armed forces took part. Despite Covid rules making the service much smaller than intended, it was a spectacular tribute.
Before the church service Philip’s casket arrived on the back of a green Land Rover hearse that he had helped to design. It was draped in his personal standard, naval cap and sword, with white roses and lilies chosen by Her Majesty, who he called “Lillibet”. Philip’s much-loved carriage and two of his favourite horses, Balmoral Nevis and Notlaw Storm, were there, with his riding cap and gloves lying on the seat in a poignant tribute.
A procession led by a tearful Prince Charles followed the hearse. Philip’s other children Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward plus others walked behind.