In a poignant ceremony, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh conveyed a personal message from King Charles to a crowd in Birmingham gathered to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the city's tragic pub bombings. As the Duchess of Edinburgh, representing the Royal Family, addressed those outside New Street on Thursday afternoon, there was a visibly emotional response from the assembly of community members, local leaders, and dignitaries.
They collectively observed a minute of silence and a memorial service to honour the 21 people who lost their lives and nearly 200 others who were maimed or wounded in the explosions at the Mulberry Bush and Tavern in the Town pubs on November 21, 1974.
Conveying the King's words, the Duchess of Edinburgh expressed the Royal couple's sympathies, stating: "As you come together to mark 50 years since the terrible events of 21st November 1974, my wife and I would like to take this opportunity to say that you and all those affected by this dreadful attack remain very much in our thoughts."
The message continued: "Today, we remember the 21 people who lost their lives so cruelly and all who were injured, many of them grievously."
In addition to paying respects to the victims, the King also acknowledged the selfless contributions of those who provided crucial assistance on the devastating night of the bombings and in the subsequent period.
His Majesty expressed his "sincere admiration for people of Birmingham" and lauded the city's "exceptional strength" and its forward-looking motto. In a heartfelt message, the King said: "I'm very sorry that I cannot be with you all today, but my thoughts, prayers and very best wishes remain with you all, as you mark this saddest of days."
As the commemoration continued, Bishop Challoner Catholic College's gifted students performed pieces composed specifically for the occasion.
At the site of the permanent memorial outside New Street, adorned with sculptural steel trees bearing 21 leaves to represent each life lost, roses were laid in remembrance. The ceremony also honoured the emergency services who responded to the tragedy, the hospitals that treated the injured, and the taxi drivers who transported victims without charge.
For the 50th anniversary we are asking people to leave a tribute message to families still fighting for justice. As the city fell silent at 2pm, Brummies were left to reflect on the message of peace and meaningful reconciliation. The service concluded with the message of the close bond of love and friendship that binds the city together.
The terror attack remains Britain's largest unsolved mass murder and families have called for a fresh inquiry that could reveal 'new information' that may finally lead to justice. You can read more on the tireless campaign led by families of victims, here.