KATHARINE, DUCHESS OF KENT

The ‘Yorkshire lass’ who stepped back from royal duties to teach music in a Hull primary school, where she was plain Mrs Kent, dies aged 92

- REPORT: EMILY NASH

The royal family is in mourning after the death of the Duchess of Kent last week.

Buckingham Palace announced “with deep sorrow” that the 92-year-old Duchess had passed away peacefully at her home in Kensington Palace last Thursday evening, surrounded by her family.

“The King and Queen and all members of the royal family join the Duke of Kent, his children and his grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly the Duchess’s lifelong devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people,” the palace said.

The Prince and Princess of Wales said: “Our thoughts today are with the Duke of Kent and his family, particularly George, Helen and Nicholas.

“The Duchess worked tirelessly to help others and supported many causes, including through her love of music. She will be a much-missed member of the family. W & C.”

As the news was announced, the flags at official royal residences including Buckingham Palace were lowered to half-mast and the King, who was at Balmoral, approved a period of royal mourning until the day of the funeral.

During this time, members of the royal family and staff will wear appropriate clothing, and those in livery and in the Royal Mews, and troops on public duties, will wear black armbands. An online book of condolence is being made available.

HELLO! understands that although royal engagements are likely to continue, consideration will be given to the tone and format.

After stepping down from royal duties in 2002, the Duchess spent her latter years enjoying a fulfilling second act as a music teacher.