Duchess Sophie receives honour as Canada visit comes to end

Duchess Sophie, who has been continuing with her important visit on behalf of King Charles, received a special nod as her Canada four-day visit comes to an end.

The Duchess of Edinburgh had arrived in Alberta on Thursday just after she was approved as patron of the Spruce Meadows – a top show jumping facility – in April.

Apart from her new duties, Sophie also carried out a significant royal engagement for the position she has held since 2005.

Prince Edward’s wife also serves as the Colonel-in-Chief of The South Alberta Light Horse (SALH) — an honorary and ceremonial position representing the British Crown.

On Monday, September 8, 2025, the Duchess visited the Jefferson Armoury at the Edmonton Garrison, where she met with military members and their families, shared a sweet moment with Winston the corgi.

During the visit, she was honoured with the SALH Regimental Medal (No. 0010) in recognition of her outstanding support of the regiment.

Sophie also presented the King’s Coronation Medals to Lieutenant (Ret.) Richard Mack, Master Corporal Liam Lidar, Warrant Officer Daniel Tarrant and Mrs Susan Angus.

The visit concluded with a warm regimental family photo, marking her successful and heartfelt Canadian engagement.

It is expected that Duchess Sophie will be returning to the UK on Tuesday just as Buckingham Palace is making appropriate funeral arrangements for the Duchess of Kent.

The sad passing of Katharine was announced last week when Sophie had landed in Alberta. Sophie honoured the late royal by abiding the protocol of wearing dark clothes as a sign of mourning.