Queen Camilla is attending the National Service of Remembrance in Whitehall this morning, having been unable to attend last year due to a seasonal chest infection. Cutting a solemn figure on the centre balcony of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office overlooking Whitehall, Camilla joined the King and other senior royals to commemorate the war dead.

Last year, the Princess of Wales was the highest-ranked royal on the balconies, due to the Queen’s absence. But as Her Majesty returned to her rightful place this year, she resumed her role in leading members of the Firm from up high.

Thousands have gathered in the heart of Whitehall to watch the Remembrance Service, which will see some 10,000 veterans march past the memorial. A volley from a gun fired by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery from nearby Horse Guards Parade signalled the start of the two minutes of silent reflection, with another marking its end.

The Queen and Princess Kate have been watching the event side by side from the centre balcony.

Camilla, 78, and Kate, 43, both appeared visibly moved by the two-minute silence and watched on proudly as their husbands laid wreaths.

They were also seen sharing sweet smiles with one another, with the day being poignant for them both as a result of having family members who served in the war.

Other members of the Royal Family to watch from other balconies included Sophie, The Duchess of Edinburgh, and The Duke of Kent.

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester also watched the service from a balcony.

King Charles appeared to be visibly moved during the two-minute silence today, appearing tearful as the nation fell silent to remember those who served.

Duchess Sophie also looked emotional as her husband Prince Edward laid a wreath, with the duchess seen wiping her eye as she watched on.