The Queen’s arrival was always going to be carefully planned – we know she’s had trouble walking recently, but who was with her was unexpected.
Walking just a short distance inside Westminster Abbey, Her Majesty held onto her son Prince Andrew‘s arm.
This was the first time that we’ve seen him publicly with the family since he settled his sex abuse case.
Read more: Queen attends Philip’s memorial service in first major appearance in months
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Yes, he lives close to the Queen on the Windsor Estate, but this was a sign from the monarch that despite losing his military titles and stepping down from royal life, he is still one of them.
The family sat alongside each other, not socially distanced as they had been for the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral in April last year.
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A few tears in their eyes, a reminder of how much Prince Philip is still missed.
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Elements that had to be cut from his funeral because of COVID were added, including certain pieces of music.
They could sing hymns and this time, politicians, foreign royalty and those who’d worked for him could all be invited.
Richard Griffin, who was the duke’s close protection officer, told me it was a fitting tribute after a year when we’ve had time to look past the image of the man famous for his so-called gaffes, and reflect on his contribution to Great Britain, his charities and his family.
It was also a service looking to the future. Some of his great-grandchildren, including Prince George and Princess Charlotte, were in the congregation, along with hundreds of charity representatives who are continuing his good work; the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme was just one that was celebrated in a speech.
On a day when they wanted the focus to be on Prince Philip, placing Prince Andrew front and centre was an unusual move.
But it was a reminder of the difficult times they’ve faced since the duke died and the fact his widow, the Queen, can no longer lean on him for much-needed support.
