JUST 30 people will be allowed to attend Prince Philip’s funeral as a result of tough coronavirus restrictions.
It is likely the Queen will invite her cousins and their spouses – including the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester – who have offered loyal support and service over the years.
Who is Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester?
Prince Richard, Duke of Glouster is the second son of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester and Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester.
He is the youngest grandchild of King George V and Queen Mary
At birth, he was 5th in the line of succession to the British throne – He is now the 29th.
He married Birgitte van Deurs in July 1972 and the couple have three children
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester’s official residence is at Kensington Palace in London.
Richard was an architect until his elder brother Prince William died in 1972.
William was an accomplished pilot and the President of the British Light Aviation Centre.
He owned several aircraft and competed in amateur air shows.
In August 1972, he was competing in the Goodyear International Air Trophy at Halfpenny Green, near Wolverhampton, with Vyrell Mitchell listed as a passenger.
Shortly after their takeoff and at a very low altitude, the Piper Cherokee banked abruptly with the wing hitting a tree and shearing off, and the out-of-control plane flipped over and crashed into an earth bank, bursting into flames.
Both Prince William and Mitchell were killed.
Richard became heir apparent to his father’s dukedom and had to take on additional family obligations and royal duties on behalf of the Queen.
How is he related to Queen Elizabeth II?
Prince Richard is a paternal first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II.
What are his duties in the Royal Family?
Prince Richard is a full-time working member of the Royal Family.
He attends national and international events in support of The Queen and her duties as Head of State.
He also undertakes extensive public duties and engagements every year reflecting his own interests and charities.
