The Queen’s death left an ‘unimaginable void’ – we loved seeing her share her passions to our kids, say Sophie & Edward
PRINCE Edward and Sophie Wessex today said they have been "overwhelmed by the tide of emotion" following the Queen's death.
The couple told how Her Majesty's passing has left "an unimaginable void" in their lives - but they will forever cherish the happy memories they have of her relationship with their kids.
In an emotional statement, they referenced how daughter Lady Louise Windsor and son James, Viscount Severn share the same passions and hobbies as their grandmother and Prince Philip.
Lady Louise, 18, famously loves horses and carriage driving - just like the late monarch and Duke of Edinburgh.
Edward and Sophie said: "As a family, we have grown up learning to share our parents, especially our beloved mama, with the Nation, her Realms and the Commonwealth.
"While it has been lovely to have spent time saying our own farewell privately at Balmoral, it is now time to allow others to be able to say their farewell.
READ MORE ON THE QUEEN'S DEATH
"We have been overwhelmed by the tide of emotion that has engulfed us and the sheer number of people who have gone out of their way to express their own love, admiration and respect to such a very special and unique person who was always there for us.
"And now, we are there for her, united in grief. Thank you for your support, you have no idea how much it means."
It comes as...
- Prince William will lead the Queen's grandchildren at a poignant vigil at her coffin tomorrow
- Prince Harry will wear his uniform at the vigil after being granted permission by the King
- The list of 500 heads of state and dignitaries attending the Queen's funeral has been confirmed
- Charles greets cheering school kids as he visits Wales for first time since becoming King
- Queen Consort Camilla has been soldiering on with her duties despite breaking a toe two weeks ago
- Entry to the queue to see the Queen lying in state was paused for at least six hours before another formed - as David Beckham lines up from 2am before wiping away tears
- A minute-by-minute guide on Her Majesty's funeral details has been released
They continued: "The Queen’s passing has left an unimaginable void in all our lives.
"Sophie and I have taken huge pleasure in seeing our James and Louise enjoying the places and activities that their grandparents loved so much.
Most read in The Sun
"Given that my mama let us spend so much time with her, I think she also rather enjoyed watching those passions blossom.
"Those times together, those happy memories, have now become massively precious to each and every one of us.
"May God bless Her Majesty and may her memory be long cherished even as the baton she has carried for these past 70 years now passes to the next generation and to my brother, Charles.
"Long Live The King."
The Earl and Countess of Wessex today greeted members of the public outside Windsor Castle.
They received a warm welcome as they viewed the sea of flowers and notes left for Her Majesty at the Cambridge Gate.
Sophie, dressed in black, placed bouquets given to them by crowds, while Edward smiled as he read some of the messages left for his mother.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Read More on The Sun
Sophie, said to be like the Queen's "second daughter", promised one well-wisher ";I will lay them for you" as she was given the flowers, which she said were "lovely".
The Queen's youngest son asked mourners where they were from and told them "thank you very much indeed".
