Royals grieve after Duchess of Kent's death at age of 92

THE Duchess of Kent, wife of the late Queen’s cousin the Duke of Kent, has died aged 92, Buckingham Palace announced yesterday.

- By Emily Ferguson Royal Editor

She died peacefully on Thursday evening at her Kensington Palace home surrounded by her family.

Flags were lowered to half-mast at royal residences yesterday as members of the family paid tribute.

The Palace’s statement read: “It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent.

“The King and Queen and all members of the Royal Family join the Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly the Duchess’ lifelong devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.” The cause of death has not been revealed.

The Prince and Princess of Wales paid a personal tribute, praising the Duchess for working “tirelessly to help others”. In a message on Kensington Palace’s social media accounts, William and Kate wrote:

“Our thoughts are with the Duke of Kent and his family.

“The Duchess worked tirelessly to help others and supported many causes, including through her love of music.