Princess Catherine steps out in London to mark Anzac Day | Royal | News

Following the parade, the Princess of Wales laid a wreath on behalf of His Majesty the King. Prince William’s wife will soon attend the Remembrance and Thanksgiving service at Westminster Abbey.

The ceremony will be a traditional church service, featuring a speech by the Dean of Westminster, readings by the New Zealand and Australian High Commissioners, prayers recited by each country’s children, and a Māori waiata (song) performed by London-based Ngāti Rānana.

The day is used to remember all Australians and New Zealanders who lost their lives in conflict and to remember all those who served.

Anzac Day has been celebrated in London since King George V attended the first service at Westminster Abbey to mark the anniversary of the Gallipoli landing in 1916.

It has been an important event in the royal calendar ever since.

Earlier this morning, Princess Anne became the first royal to attend an Anzac Day event, wrapping herself in a long dark green coat to attend the Dawn Service at Wellington Arch in Hyde Park Corner.

During the ceremony, which lasted approximately 45 minutes, Mother listened to various readings.

The ceremony, organized by the New Zealand and Australian High Commissions, also included the Last Post, a moment of silence, celebrations and national anthems.

Before leaving, Anne laid a wreath and signed a memorial book.