Duchess Sophie makes first visit to key venue after King's major honour

The Duchess of Edinburgh has recently been playing a more prominent role for King Charles, especially after he was diagnosed with cancer last year.

As Sophie continues to take on key roles for the monarchy, she returned to her roots in an emotional visit after receiving major honour.

Known as the Countess of Wessex before the ascension of King Charles to the throne, Sophie visited young ballet dancers at the Countess of Wessex Studios in Central School of Ballet, London, on Tuesday.

In 2020, she had formally opened the studios named in her honour, after she had served as a patron to the ballet school since 2003. The move had marked an important milestone for the school.

This was the first time Duchess Sophie had returned to the significant venue. For the visit, she was dressed in a green Zimmermann dress, supporting young dancers across all levels of training.

The school offers professional dance training classes from age three through to 18 in their school, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate levels of education. The state-of-the-art health suite provides students with access to psychology and nutrition services, alongside a Pilates programme and injury recovery support.

Prince Edward and Sophie will named the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh in a special honour from King Charles. The title of Duke of Edinburgh was especially created for their father, Prince Philip, when he had married Queen Elizabeth.

The King's decision to grant the sentimental title was an indication of the special place the couple holds in the monarchy. This also served as a reward for their continued loyalty and service to the Crown.