The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Poignant image of couple on Deeside
Atouching photograph of the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh taken in Aberdeenshire which gives a glimpse of their lives away from protocol was last night released on the eve of Philip’s funeral.
The royal couple are pictured as they are rarely seen – relaxing together during a summer break and enjoying the stunning scenery of Upper Deeside on their Balmoral estate.
Looking completely at ease and smiling warmly at the photographer, Philip and the Queen relax on the grass at the Coyles of Muick, a beauty spot near the town of Ballater in Aberdeenshire.
In the background can be seen the profile of the iconic mountain Lochnagar (3,800ft).
The duke lies back on a rug, propping himself up on his left elbow and has placed his hat on his right knee. Beaming at the Countess of Wessex – who took the picture in 2003 – the Queen, dressed in a tartan skirt, blouse and cardigan and a string of pearls, also sits on a rug.
After 73 years of marriage, she will say farewell to Philip during a televised funeral service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle today, attended by a small group of close family and friends.
Covid regulations have reduced the scope of the service with public elements cancelled, mourners reduced from around 800 to just 30, and all guests wearing face masks and sitting apart.
Philip’s “unwavering loyalty” to the Queen and “courage, fortitude and faith” will be hailed at his funeral.
No sermon will be delivered during the ceremonial royal service, in keeping with Philip’s wishes.
Also released yesterday were previously unseen images of the duke during his schooldays at Gordonstoun in Moray.
The images were taken by the great-uncle of a former pupil who contacted the school following the duke’s death.
They show him in 1937, sailing one of Gordonstoun’s boats Diligent, and displaying his confidence at the helm.