Prince William has shown another, vulnerable side to himself during his current tour of Scotland.
The British heir visited several locations around the country over the weekend – and while some stops were full of fanfare and action, others were a little more poignant.
While speaking at the opening ceremony of the Church of Scotland, William opened up about why the country will always hold an incredibly dear place in his heart.
“Scotland is the source of some of my happiest memories. But also, my saddest,” he said in his speech.
Referencing the tragic morning of his mother, Princess Diana’s death, he explained: “I was in Balmoral when I was told that my mother had died. Still in shock, I found sanctuary in the service at Crathie Kirk that very morning.
“And in the dark days of grief that followed, I found comfort and solace in the Scottish outdoors. As a result, the connection I feel to Scotland will forever run deep.”
The rest of the Prince’s weekend in Scotland certainly reflected the special connection he holds with the place.
William spent time at an Edinburgh football field where he spoke to members of the local club and had a kick around.
As a keen football fan himself, the outing was well suited to Wills.
Later in the weekend, William also visited Knockhill Racing Circuit where he geared up and had a go at racing a car.
There he also learnt of a growing organisation Extreme E Live, which creates vehicles that are charged with zero-emission energy.
On Monday, the Duke will be joined by his wife Duchess Catherine who will also take part in the whirlwind tour.
Together, the pair are set to visit several organisations and iconic locations – including St Andrews University, the very place they first met.
The pair will speak with current students there about how they have coped and supported each other over the last 12 months.
