The Princess Royal and Sir Tim Laurence were in Glasgow today, where they couple met representatives from the Queen’s Patronages.
Princess Anne viewed floral tributes at the City Chambers, where a book of condolence has been left for the late Queen.
She chatted to well-wishers who had waited to see the couple and pass on their condolences. In a sweet moment, Anne accepted a bouquet of flowers from a young girl, who seemed shy at first, thinking the flowers were to be laid in tribute to her mother.
However, the group had brought a bunch for the Queen and one for the Princess, who seemed touched by the unexpected gesture. Many have noted Anne’s unwavering core these last few days, following the death of her mother.
Princess Anne was touched to receive flowers for herself (@RoyalFamily)
mums just sent me this of a wee lass giving princess anne some flowers in glasgow? pic.twitter.com/9hZz3ZeJne
— al??????? (@aleshiaingram) September 15, 2022
Anne told the public that the floral tributes to the late Queen were ‘really and truly out of this world’ as she was seen comforting grieving children outside City Chambers
Royal fans don’t often get to see the softer side to Anne, who often is know for adopting the ‘never complain, never explain’ motto. Her rapport with children is likely enhanced by her five grandchildren: Savannah, Isla, Mia, Lena and Lucas.
During the reception inside the City Chambers, guests spoke of their memories of the late Monarch, and what it meant to have her as patron of their organisations.
Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock, president of the Royal British Legion Scotland, said: ‘The relationship between the Monarch and her armed forces is a unique and special one. Whenever she came on visits she took the time to speak to people. She was genuinely interested in what they were doing and took the time to speak to everyone.’
Prof Beverly Bergman, former vice president of Royal Scottish Society of Arts, said it was a ‘huge privilege’ to have the Queen as patron. She noted how ‘we’ve had the royal patronage right from our inception in 1821,’ she said.
‘It gives us that kudos and link to an unwavering chain of royalty. With her 70 year reign she has been our patron for one third of the society’s existence, which is a remarkable record that I suspect will never be equalled again.’
Lawrence Cowan, fundraising director at Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, said they had ‘lost a lifetime supporter’ with the death of Her Majesty. He added: ‘She would send notes of support and come visit our services. She would shine a light on the work of our volunteers. The work that we do, the kindness in our communities, it will continue in her memory.’
Dame Susan Bruce, chair of Royal Scottish National Orchestra, said: ‘It was incredibly important to have the Queen’s patronage. It means an enormous amount, giving us a prominence on the world stage as well as the Scottish stage.’
Hilary Harris, acting chair of Lambhill Stables, praised Anne for the attention she gave each representative during the visit. She noted how Anne ‘came and sat at the table, she had a place set for her, and she came and sat with us. There was eight volunteers from our organisation. She spoke individually to everyone, asked them all what they did, and gave them plenty opportunity to speak to her. She knew we had gardens, she knew about the cafe, she knew what we did, she knew when it was renovated.’
The Princess Royal has played a central role over the last few days of history. Anne accompanied her mother’s coffin back to London, took part in a vigil alongside her siblings, viewed tributes outside Balmoral with members of the Royal Family, walked behind the Queen’s coffin in yesterday’s procession to Westminster Hall.
Upon returning to London, the Queen’s only daughter issued a statement where she said she was ‘fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother’s life’. She called it an ‘honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys’.
