Kate's emotional VE Day tribute as Kensington Palace issues new update
The Prince and Princess of Wales joined the King and Queen for a moving VE Day service at Westminster Abbey today, with Kate paying a touching tribute to those who died in the Second World War as she left the ceremony
The Princess of Wales made a moving gesture at the end of a special service at Westminster Abbey to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Kate and husband, Prince William, had joined the Royal Family, including the King and Queen, for the service of thanksgiving honouring the sacrifices of those who brought peace to Europe 80 years ago.
A national two minutes silence was observed before the simple ceremony, and among the congregation were veterans of the conflict who helped to defeat fascism on the continent during a war that lasted almost six years. At the end of the ceremony, all of the royals, including Kate, spent time with veterans and their families as they made their way out of the Abbey.
The princess, in an Alexandra Rich dress and earrings that belonged to Princess Diana, crouched down to meet one woman, holding her hand as she chatted to the veteran, who was wearing medals and sat in her wheelchair. William was seen warmly placing his hand on one veteran's shoulder as he chatted to the former serviceman who stood to speak with the prince and Kate.
Then, as is tradition, a young girl presented Kate with a posy of colourful flowers as she made her way out of the building. But in a moving tribute, she left the flowers at the large circular slate Innocent Victims' Memorial outside the abbey on departure, as did the Queen.
The blooms were picked yesterday within the walls of Windsor Castle and the surrounding estate. They included rosemary for remembrance, oak for endurance and bluebells, which traditionally represent gratitude.
Kate's gesture comes as it has been revealed that both she and William will now join Charles and Camilla at Horse Guards Parade for a special concert tonight. The VE Day party, presented by Zoe Ball, will feature performances by The Darkness, Toploader, and classical singer Sir Willard White.
The likes of Samantha Barks, Fleur East, John Newman, Calum Scott and a host of other performers are also set to take to the stage, while the professionals of Strictly Come Dancing will also be performing.
Actor Timothy Spall began VE Day commemorations in London on Monday by reading extracts of then Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill's victory speech to the nation on May 8 1945. Monday also saw a military procession and flypast in central London, as well as a street party held at Downing Street.
Pubs and bars have been granted permission to stay open for longer to mark the anniversary. Venues in England and Wales which usually close at 11pm tonight will be able to keep serving for an extra two hours to celebrate.
Churches and cathedrals across the country will ring their bells as a collective act of thanksgiving at 6.30pm, echoing the sounds that swept across the country in 1945, the Church of England said.
Get Royal Family updates straight to your WhatsApp!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
40 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE BBC star battling health struggles doubles his money in just four years by transforming and selling his London home for £2.75million
Radio 2 star DJ Spoony is selling the grand Victorian house he turned into his dream home in a backbreaking four year renovation project - just months after undergoing life-saving brain surgery. The DJ has decided it is time to move on - just as he completed the finishing touches on transforming the previously neglected property into 'a thing of beauty'. He has put the house - which has six bedrooms and six bathrooms - on the market for a whopping £2.75million. Despite spending a fortune renovating the place, Spoony, 54, is hoping to make a tidy profit on the sale after buying the house 'a prestigious residential avenue' in Bedford for £1.25 million in March 2021. Along with his girlfriend Laura Henchoz, the Strictly Come Dancing star has posted dozens of photos on a special Instagram site he set up chronicling his passionate journey to transform the house which had been converted into a somewhat shabby 16 bedroom B&B into a modern family home. The DJ shared the journey of the 'high and lows' and challenges he faced during the works which he and his partner Laura carried out along with a team of designers and builders. In the end, the star created the ultimate party pad complete with a state-of-the-art studio with a unique DJ booth made out of aircraft parts. There's also a home cinema hidden behind a secret bookcase, gym and a 'vinyl room of dreams' - a spectacular library where instead of books Spoony kept his collection of thousands of records which he played on a powerful sound system. Outside, along with the landscaped gardens, there's a huge terrace and a recently completed outdoor bar, pergola and hot tub. Spoony, whose real name is Johnathan Joseph, had hoped to complete the work within 12 months but in his most recent posting in March he told how it was 'still not finished'. In the message he told how it had 'been a minute' since his last posting but explained there had been a lot going on 'with new radio shows, medical dramas and life generally life-ing'. The DJ went through an horrific health scare last Christmas when he was rushed to hospital after suffering a bleed on the brain. He was transferred to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge where he underwent surgery at 2am on Christmas Eve. Revealing the news to fans shortly before new year, he told how he went to A&E on December 21st after around four weeks of suffering headaches. He wrote on social media: 'They did a few tests and said they wanted to give me a CT scan. The scan showed I had a small bleed on the brain (that had stopped bleeding) that was causing a bit of pressure on the brain hence the headaches. 'They said that they were referring me to Addenbrooke's as they needed to operate asap. Crazy as I'd been working and training solidly all through the time of the headaches.' He shared the news in an Instagram post on Monday alongside a selection of pictures himself during the process It emerged he had suffered a subdural haematoma - a serious condition where blood collects between the skull and the surface of the brain that is usually caused by a head injury. Patients usually need to undergo emergency surgery which involves either removing a section of the skull so the surgeon can access and remove the haematoma or drilling a small hole into the skull and inserting a tube to help drain it. Spoony told fans that within 10 minutes of the operation he was on his way back to the ward 'fully alert, chatting and not feeling groggy'. He added: 'What was crazy was the headache had instantly gone. Four weeks of this throb and finally peace up top. 'I woke up on Christmas morning in hospital. I was so grateful. Had something special to look forward to. Going home to my family and friends. All who had been incredible for the last few days. The visits, support, calls, messages. Very humbling. 'There was however some sadness waking up near to some people that didn't know where they were, that would've spent a large part, if not all, of the day without loved ones. I think about them all every day and hope they are making progress in their recovery.' In an update in January he told fellow Radio 2 star Mark Goodier: 'You know my fitness isn't where it was, but my health is fine, the scars are healing amazingly. 'I can't believe how well the scars are healing. I'm sure I've had paper cuts that have taken longer to heal than the operation scars. 'I'm really good. Thank you for asking. Thank you to everybody that's messaged, it's been a bit overwhelming if I'm honest.' The setback came as he was preparing to launch his new two-hour Radio 2 evening show The Good Groove which is broadcast Monday to Thursday. Since then he appears to have continued on the road to full recovery and has continued to throw himself into work with appearances at a number of live shows and festivals alongside his radio programmes. Spoony is yet to update fans over where he is planning to live next while estate agents have been highlighting the great selling points of the DJ's home. They explain how the 7,500 sq ft mansion's imposing red-brick façade, gabled rooflines and period detailing make an 'immediate impression' that sets the stage for 'an interior that has been meticulously restored and reimagined to the highest standards'. While describing the 'prestigious' property as 'a fusion of heritage architecture and modern design' they are putting a slightly different spin on how the restoration could work for buyers who may not be international DJ's. They suggest Spoony's 'vinyl room' would be a 'sophisticated and elegant' library - describing it as 'a striking and atmospheric space designed for quiet retreat or focused work'. His studio could be turned into 'the perfect environment for entertaining or a playroom' and his upstairs cinema has 'a peaceful feeling' that would make a perfect 'meditation space'. But they were in no doubt that Spoony's re-workings of the house provided the 'wow factor' for any buyer. The agents wrote in a glossy brochure: 'In its entirety, this home represents a rare opportunity to acquire a Victorian house of scale that has been fully modernised with architectural integrity and stylistic clarity. 'Every room has been shaped to enhance light, proportion and comfort, resulting in a home that is both distinctive and deeply functional.' It certainly appears to be tastefully done. There doesn't seem to be a carpet in sight with wooden and concrete flooring along with classic-style tiling throughout as well as plenty of exposed brickwork. The property has a huge open plan area where the modern 'bespoke' kitchen, dining room and living spaces have been combined 'to dramatic effect'. The kitchen has white quartz worktops and a central island clad in solid brass while it's also equipped 'with integrated high-specification appliances' including dual wine fridges. Giant sliding glass doors open onto the property's garden terrace offering a space that 'comfortably accommodates large gatherings while retaining a sense of proportion and calm'. There's also a grand imposing hall entrance on the ground floor, as well as a study for 'professional or creative use' . The first floor has three bedrooms - all with ensuite bathrooms - including the 'opulent' principal suite which has a bathroom with marble worktops and a free standing bath and a large dressing room in a space that creates 'a private and luxurious retreat'. The second floor offers two further bedrooms, a dressing room, and the secret cinema room. The first floor gym is accessed by a separate staircase and stands alongside a mezzanine balcony overlooking the sitting room. The mezzanine is described as being 'ideal for guests or an au-pair' as there is also a further bedroom which has an en-suite shower room. Hackney-born Spoony shot to fame in the 1990's, progressing from pirate radio to become one the first garage DJs to play the music genre on Radio 1. He went on to front a Five Live phone-in show and hosted the Radio 1 Sunday Breakfast Show. The DJ also took part in the 2006 series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering Ola Jordan. The pair were eliminated from the show in its third week, despite receiving positive comments from the judging panel. The DJ was awarded a British Empire Medal in the 2023 New Year Honours for his services to charity through music during the Covid pandemic. Across ten weeks in the 2020 lockdown, he hosted DJ livestreams from his home every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, playing R&B, club classics, soul and UK garage. The streams, which were broadcast live on social media, raised more than £20,000 for the NHS and various charities and saw more than one million listeners tune in. Spoony said of the honour: 'I didn't think for the life of me that those streams would have the impact that they did. No way could I have imagined it. 'And I know that's quite romantic, but I see this award as much as for our community as for me. And that's largely why I'm accepting it, because I'm a little bit conflicted with the whole thing. 'But I'm going to take this on behalf of everybody that stuck together and made those afternoons and evenings streaming so pleasant.' He went on to dedicate the honour to his late mother, declaring: 'I learned to dance standing on her feet and she gave me rhythm.'
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
EastEnders cancelled tonight as summer-long soap schedule shake-ups begin
Keep scrolling to find out more about the schedule change Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) EASTENDERS is off screens tonight as summer-long soap schedule shake-ups come into effect. Viewers know the BBC soap usually airs on Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 4 EastEnders viewers are set for a schedule shake-up Credit: BBC 4 The BBC soap won't be on screen tonight Credit: BBC 4 Viewers will need to adjust to a new schedule Credit: BBC However, for this week fans will have to adjust to a schedule shake-up. A 2026 World Cup qualifier between Wales and Belgium will be on screens tonight instead. Airing live from Brussels, coverage begins at 7.30pm and will end at 10pm - in time for News at 10. It means EastEnders fans will instead get their Walford fix from Tuesday to Friday this week. Taking to Instagram, the show's account penned: "#EastEnders schedule change! "This week's EastEnders will air Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. There is no episode tonight. But don't despair, you can also watch now on @BBCiPlayer." One fan commented: "Can't wait see you on Tuesday, Wednesday Thursday and Friday." Another added: "I like football but I LOVE EastEnders!! Can't miss an episode." Meanwhile, a popular star has quit the BBC soap after four years in Albert Square. Bobby Brazier, who has played Freddie Slater since 2022, is set to bow out. EastEnders fans say 'someone's getting fired' as BBC soap accidentally reveals major spoilers An EastEnders spokeswoman said: 'We can confirm that Bobby Brazier will be leaving EastEnders, and we wish him all the best for the future.' A telly insider revealed: 'Bosses had a meeting with Bobby only recently as they had a plan in mind for a storyline, and it just so happened that Bobby was also thinking that now was the right time to look for other opportunities outside the show. 'The timing of the decision worked for both, but his final scenes are not for a while yet. 'The character has had a great run, but the time is now right for Bobby to look for other opportunities, and for EastEnders to wave goodbye to Freddie Slater.' Furthermore, the 22-year-old's exit comes as new boss Ben Wadey makes exciting casting decisions with the returns of some high-profile stars. EastEnders stars who've been on Strictly Come Dancing Throughout its 20-year history, Strictly Come Dancing has welcomed several stars from BBC soap EastEnders. Here's a look at how some of them did over the years. Christopher Parker (Series One): Christopher played Alfie Moon's (Shane Richie) younger brother Spencer from 2002 to 2005. finished as runner-up in Strictly's first series. (Series One): Christopher played Alfie Moon's (Shane Richie) younger brother Spencer from 2002 to 2005. finished as runner-up in Strictly's first series. Jill Halfpenny (Series Two): Jill starred as Kate Mitchell in EastEnders from 2002 to 2005. She triumphed over Denise Lewis and Julian Clary to win the second series of Strictly. (Series Two): Jill starred as Kate Mitchell in EastEnders from 2002 to 2005. She triumphed over Denise Lewis and Julian Clary to win the second series of Strictly. Louisa Lytton (Series Four): Known for her role as EastEnders' Ruby Allen, Louisa took part in Strictly's fourth series. She finished in fourth place. (Series Four): Known for her role as EastEnders' Ruby Allen, Louisa took part in Strictly's fourth series. She finished in fourth place. Letitia Dean (Series Five): Letitia, who debuted as Sharon Watts in the show's first episode, took to the Strictly dance floor in series five. She finished in fourth place. (Series Five): Letitia, who debuted as Sharon Watts in the show's first episode, took to the Strictly dance floor in series five. She finished in fourth place. Matt Di Angelo (Series Five): Dean Wicks actor Matt also competed in series five of Strictly, finishing as runner-up behind Alesha Dixon. (Series Five): Dean Wicks actor Matt also competed in series five of Strictly, finishing as runner-up behind Alesha Dixon. Gillian Taylforth (Series 6): Gillian, known for her long-running portrayal as Kathy Beale, took part in series 6. She ended up being the second person voted out. (Series 6): Gillian, known for her long-running portrayal as Kathy Beale, took part in series 6. She ended up being the second person voted out. Jessie Wallace (Series 6): Kat Slater actress Jessie also competed in series 6, but was fourth voted out. (Series 6): Kat Slater actress Jessie also competed in series 6, but was fourth voted out. Scott Maslen (Series 8): Scott, who plays Jack Branning, reached a respectable fourth place on Strictly. (Series 8): Scott, who plays Jack Branning, reached a respectable fourth place on Strictly. Kara Tointon (Series 8): Kara, who played Dawn Swann, won Strictly series 8 back in 2010. (Series 8): Kara, who played Dawn Swann, won Strictly series 8 back in 2010. Sid Owen (Series 10): Sid, who played Ricky Butcher, was eliminated in the show's fourth week. (Series 10): Sid, who played Ricky Butcher, was eliminated in the show's fourth week. Jake Wood (Series 12): While his EastEnders character Max Branning was unlucky-in-love, actor Jake fared better with a fifth-place finish on Strictly. (Series 12): While his EastEnders character Max Branning was unlucky-in-love, actor Jake fared better with a fifth-place finish on Strictly. Kellie Bright (Series 13): Kellie - aka Queen Vic landlady Linda Carter - finished as the runner-up of series 13. (Series 13): Kellie - aka Queen Vic landlady Linda Carter - finished as the runner-up of series 13. Emma Barton (Series 17): Known for playing Honey Mitchell, Emma reached third place on Strictly in 2019. (Series 17): Known for playing Honey Mitchell, Emma reached third place on Strictly in 2019. Maisie Smith (Series 18): Formerly playing Tiffany Butcher-Baker, actress Maisie was 2020's second-place Strictly finalist. (Series 18): Formerly playing Tiffany Butcher-Baker, actress Maisie was 2020's second-place Strictly finalist. Rose-Ayling Ellis (Series 19): Rose won over viewers' hearts when she soared to victory in 2021. (Series 19): Rose won over viewers' hearts when she soared to victory in 2021. Bobby Brazier (Series 21): Having joined the cast as 'Freddie Slater' in 2022, Bobby joined the 2023 Strictly line-up. He finished in third place. (Series 21): Having joined the cast as 'Freddie Slater' in 2022, Bobby joined the 2023 Strictly line-up. He finished in third place. Jamie Borthwick (Series 22): Jamie, aka Jay Brown, won the 2023 Strictly Christmas Special - and has been signed up for the next full series. This includes Michelle Ryan (Zoe Slater), Jake Wood (Max Branning) and Max Bowden (Ben Mitchell). In addition, Lacey Turner is taking a break as Stacey Slater. Bobby scooped a National Television Award last year for rising star in the role. EastEnders airs on BBC One and iPlayer.
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Nick Knowles' new wife Katie shares new photos from wedding and has already changed her name on Instagram
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) NICK Knowles' new wife Katie has shared some new photos from this wedding - and she's already changed her name on Instagram. Nick, 62, and Katie, 34, said 'I do' in the same venue where Rylan Clark married ex-husband Dan Neal in 2015. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 8 Nick Knowles' new wife Katie has shared some new photos from this wedding - and she's already changed her name on Instagram Credit: Instagram 8 Katie has changed her surname to 'Knowles' on social media Credit: Instagram 8 The couple shared a kiss while cutting their cake Credit: Instagram 8 Katie shared these stunning black and white snaps Credit: Instagram The DIY SOS star and the mum-of-two were all smiles as they posed outside the country house, with the bride showing off her chic style in a stunning blue and white gown. And they've given fans a glimpse into their big day and were seen enjoying their first slow dance together after exchanging vows at Braxted Park in Essex. Now, Katie, who has already changed her surname to Knowles on social media, has shared a string of stunning photos from inside their big day. She penned to her 90,000 followers: 'When you marry your soulmate.' Katie shared photos of her and Nick hugging on the dance floor, as well as some beautiful black and white images of them cutting their three-tiered wedding cake. She also posted sweet polaroid snaps with family and friends, and a fun photo of her and Nick posed in playful costumes against a floral backdrop. Fans flooded the comments with messages of congratulations. One person wrote: 'Congratulations to you both Katie and Nick I'm happy for you both,' and a second added: 'Gorgeous .. wishing you all happiness in the world.' A third said: 'Looks like you had the perfect day even though the buried sausage didn't work,' referring to the rainy weather. Nick Knowles and wife Katie Dadzie show off their dance moves on wedding night Fans also loved watching clips of the couple's first dance. DIY SOS presenter Nick was decked out in his pink jacket while lingerie boss Katie sported her elegant blue floral gown as they swayed and gazed lovingly into each other's eyes. Even the joker Nick couldn't resist having a laugh and busted out some twerking at the end while Katie jokingly shook her head. Katie then did an outfit change and slipped into a white mini dress with match trainers and a glittery hat. Nick clearly liked what he saw, removing his jacket and spinning it around over his head. And despite having to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing due to injury last year, Nick proved he's still got the moves as he spun his wife around the floor. Later the pair let their hair down further by downing shots with their pals. There was also lots of entertainment for guests, with a carnival dancer taking to the stage at one point. Later, a band performed songs for the merry crowd. Nick and Katie spared no expense on the big day, which is rumoured to have cost six figures. 8 Katie posted sweet snaps with family and friends Credit: Instagram 8 The couple enjoying their first dance Credit: Instagram / @elocin_home 8 Katie showed off her outfit change Credit: Instagram / @elocin_home
