Prince Andrew has paid tribute to the Queen in an emotional statement, saying he will “forever treasure” his mother’s “love for a son”.
On the eve of the Queen’s funeral, the Duke of York said it was an “honour and privilege” to serve the late monarch.
“Mother of the nation, your devotion and personal service to our nation is unique and singular; your people show their love and respect in so many different ways and I know you are looking on, honouring their respect,” he penned.
Prince Andrew said he will “forever treasure” his mother’s “love for a son”.
(Image: Gety)“Mummy, your love for a son, your compassion, your care, your confidence I will treasure forever. I have found your knowledge and wisdom infinite, with no boundary or containment. I will miss your insights, advice and humour.”
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“As our book of experiences closes, another opens, and I will forever hold you close to my heart with my deepest love and gratitude, and I will tread gladly into the next with you as my guide.”
Prince Andrew, the Queen’s second-youngest child, finished by saying: “God Save The King.”
Prince Andrew, the Queen’s second-youngest child, was stripped of his military titles.
(Image: Gety)He accompanied his tribute with photo of the Queen holding him as a baby at the grounds at Balmoral, Scotland in March 1960.
The Duke of York stepped down as a working Royal in 2019 following his controversial BBC interview that addressed his relationship with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
He was also stripped of his military titles and hasn’t been allowed to wear military uniform during ceremonies in the wake of the Queen’s death.
However, an exception was made on Friday for a vigil surrounding the Queen’s coffin as she lay in state.
On Monday, Prince Andrew will walk with his older sister, Anne, the Princess Royal, his younger brother, Edward, the Duke of Wessex, and King Charles III behind the Queen’s coffin when it is taken from Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey.
The Duke’s statement, which was circulated by a public relations advisor, came after a tribute from his daughters, princesses Beatrice and Eugenie to their “dearest grannie”.
“You were our matriarch, our guide, our loving hand on our backs leading us through this world. You taught us so much and we will cherish those lessons and memories forever,” the sisters said.
The Queen’s state funeral will be held from 11am (8pm AEST) on Monday. Find out how you can watch it here.
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