William, who is now heir to the throne, said he was still grieving the loss but also felt “incredibly grateful” to have had “the benefit of the Queen’s wisdom and reassurance in my fifth decade”. In his first public statement since her death, William said: “On Thursday, the world lost an extraordinary leader whose commitment to country, kingdoms and the Commonwealth was absolute. William, Kate, Harry and Meghan reunite – live updates “So much will be said in the coming days about the meaning of her historic reign. “I, however, have lost a grandmother. And while I will mourn her loss, I am also incredibly grateful. I had the benefit of the Queen’s wisdom and reassurance in my fifth decade.” Watch live on Sky News from 10am tomorrow as a team carries the Queen’s coffin from Balmoral to Edinburgh He also spoke of the Queen’s support and love for his wife and children over the past two decades. “My wife has had 20 years of her guidance and support. My three children got to spend a vacation with her and make memories that will last a lifetime. “She’s been there for me in my happiest moments. And she’s been there for me in the saddest days of my life. I knew this day would come, but it’s going to be a while before the reality of life without Grandma really feels real. “I thank her for the kindness she showed to my family and me. And I thank her on behalf of my generation for setting an example of service and dignity in public life that was of a different age, but always relevant to us all. “My grandmother famously said that grief was the price we pay for love. All the grief we feel in the coming weeks will be a testament to the love we felt for our extraordinary queen. I will honor her memory by supporting my father, the King, in every way I can.” Read more: Line of succession: Who is now closest to the throne King Charles in pictures – the king’s life as he becomes monarch Use Chrome browser for more accessible video player 1:17 William, Kate, Harry and Meghan reunite Prince William was among the privy councilors who met in London earlier on Saturday morning to declare King Charles III the new sovereign. The ceremony, which dates back to Saxon times, saw the King pay tribute to his ‘beloved’ mother and vow to follow her ‘inspiring’ example for ‘the rest of his life’. William later joined his wife, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, to greet the crowds in Windsor. Other members of the Queen’s family inspected floral tributes outside Balmoral, the royal family’s Scottish residence where she died.
