The Princess Royal has officially opened a memorial to Queen
Elizabeth II on the 100th anniversary of her mother’s birth.
Princess Anne was in Regent’s Park to open the Queen Elizabeth
II memorial garden which provides a tranquil place in the heart of
London.
As well as unveiling a plaque marking the official opening of
the space, the Princess met some of those who have created the
garden.
She spoke to some of the horticulturalists who have worked on
the extensive grounds which feature flowered arches and water.
The tribute was part of a day of celebrations marking the 100th
anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth. King Charles and Queen
Camilla went to the British Museum to see the final plans for the
national memorial which will be unveiled in tribute to the longest
reigning Monarch in British history.
Among the designs are a glass cast bridge echoing the shape of
the tiara that Elizabeth II wore on her wedding day and statues of
both the late Queen and Prince Philip.
still/ fair use
Later on in the day, King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a
reception at Buckingham Palace where they presented cards to three
people marking their 100th birthday on 21st April 2026, the
centenary of Elizabeth II. They also met representatives of some of
the charities that were supported by Elizabeth II.
The Prince and Princess of Wales also attended the reception
with Kate choosing a pale pink dress that echoed a favourite colour
of Queen Elizabeth II. The Princess also wore a three strand pearl
necklace that belonged to the late Queen and a pair of pearl
earrings made from jewels given to her on her wedding day in
1947.
There was a surprise appearance from Princess Alexandra, a
cousin of the late Queen, who has recently retired from royal
engagements at the age of 88. Her older brother, the 90 year old
Duke of Kent, continues with his engagements. He was also at the
reception.
