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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Kieran Isgin

Prince Andrew speaks publicly for the first time since the Queen's death

The Duke of York has spoken publicly for the first time since the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II.

In a short speech, he thanked members of the public for visiting Balmoral after the death of Britain's longest-reigning monarch. Speaking to well-wishers in the crowd, he said: "We've been allowed one day, now we start the process of handing her on."

Other members of the Royal family were seen nodding to members of the public as they walked up to Balmoral towards the gates. The family took a moment to stop and look at the flowers and read tributes from the public.

Read more: The reason King Charles has added an R to the end of his signature - and why it's different to the Queen

Princess Eugenie was seen laying a bunch of flowers alongside the other tributes. The Duke of York was spotted putting his arm around his daughter as she wiped tears from her eyes.

The Earl of Wessex, accompanied by his wife and daughter Lady Louise, also expressed his thank to those who visited Balmoral Castle. Upon hearing that one group had travelled from Glasgow to show their support, he said: "Thank you very much for coming all that way, we appreciate it."

It cames after King Charles III was officially proclaimed monarch earlier today. In a speech he said: "I know how deeply you, the entire nation – and I think I may say the whole world – sympathise with me in the irreparable loss we have all suffered.

Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence, The Duke of York, The Princess Royal, the Earl of Wessex, Lady Louise Windsor, the Countess of Wessex and Princess Eugenie (PA Wire/PA Images)

"It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my sister and brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss."

He added: "My mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life.”

"I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of Sovereignty which have now passed to me. In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional Government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these islands and of the Commonwealth Realms and Territories throughout the world.”

Prince Andrew, Duke of York, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie look at floral tributes outside Crathie Kirk church (Getty Images)

The King ended by saying: “And in carrying out the heavy task that has been laid upon me, and to which I now dedicate what remains to me of my life, I pray for the guidance and help of Almighty God.”

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