Edinburghs step in for monarch during national remembrance service in London
Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie stood in solidarity with King Charles as they attended a poignant memorial service marking the 20th anniversary of the 7/7 London terror attacks.
On July 7, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh represented the royal family at St Paul's Cathedral, joining survivors, bereaved families, emergency service personnel, and political leaders including Prime Minister Keir Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The service honoured the memory of the 52 lives lost in the tragic 2005 bombings.
Although the King did not attend in person, he issued a heartfelt message shared on the royal family’s official social media channels. In his tribute, the monarch offered “special prayers” and “heartfelt thoughts” to the victims and their families, reflecting on the enduring impact of the tragedy.
*Duchess Sophie and Prince Edward pay their respects on 20th anniversary of 7/7*
— albert Irani (@IraniAlber43656) July 7, 2025
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“While the horrors will never be forgotten,” he wrote, “we may take comfort from the way such events rally communities together in solidarity, solace and determination. It is this spirit of unity that has helped London, and our nation, to heal.”
He added, “As we remember those we lost, let us therefore use this 20th anniversary to reaffirm our commitment to building a society where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live together with mutual respect and understanding.”
With King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales, continuing their recovery from cancer treatment, the Edinburghs have increasingly taken on more prominent roles within the royal family. Reports suggest that Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie may be entrusted with greater responsibilities during Prince William’s future reign.
