Palace shares heartfelt tribute as Princess Royal marks 80 years since Channel Islands' liberation
Princess Anne has shared a moving message on behalf of King Charles III after departing the UK to represent the monarch at the 80th anniversary of Guernsey’s liberation from enemy occupation.
The Princess Royal, who recently supported her brother at a Buckingham Palace garden party, travelled with her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence to attend the commemorative events in Guernsey on Friday.
In her official address, Anne read the King’s personal message to the islanders:
"To my most loyal people in the Island of Guernsey, I send my warmest greetings on this the Eightieth Anniversary of your Liberation from enemy occupation."
The message continued with a reflection on the enduring legacy of war:
"I was interested to learn that this occasion will be commemorated and celebrated by people of all ages, with a focus on the ever-decreasing number who lived through the War..."
The royal family released touching photographs of Anne in Guernsey, accompanied by a statement of goodwill:
“My thoughts and prayers remain with you for the future happiness and the prosperity of your beloved Island.”
Princess Anne, 74, began her day at the Liberation Day parade on the seafront at St. Peter Port, where she received the Royal Salute and inspected the front rank of the parade. Her packed schedule also included a church service and meetings with survivors who experienced the wartime occupation.
She was formally escorted throughout the day by Lieutenant-Governor Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell and Parade Commander Lieutenant Commander Tim Slann.
