Duchess Sophie marked the third anniversary of the war in Sudan with a deeply focused visit to the headquarters of Plan International in London.

She joined youth advocates and government representatives to highlight world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

As patron of the children’s charity, the Duchess took part in a roundtable discussion examining the devastating impact the conflict has had on civilians. 

Speaking during the event, she described Sudan as experiencing “the most horrendous human cost on the planet.” 

Despite her experience speaking to women affected by conflict globally, the accounts emerging from Sudan stood out as some of the most distressing she has encountered.

She went on to stress the importance of sustained attention and international responsibility, saying, “No human should ever have to encounter such devastation and violence. 

We must not forget them and I will keep raising my voice where and when I can.”

During the Plan International gathering, Sophie also added a handwritten message to a “tree of reflection,” writing: “Peace is the only option. The people of Sudan are not forgotten.”

Prince Michael of Kent hosted submariners for a formal dinner in London on Friday to recognise the growing contribution of reservists in front-line underwater operations.

The gathering took place at the historic Naval and Military Club known as the “In and Out Club,” where members of the Royal Navy Reserve Submarine Operations Specialisation joined senior naval officers for a special reception and dinner.

As Commodore-in-Chief Maritime Reserves, Prince Michael met personnel from the submarine reserve community and was briefed on recent achievements.

The event shows how modern training pathways are enabling reservists to step into demanding operational environments.

One of the key examples discussed was last year’s Operation Highmast carrier strike group deployment, during which a Submarine Operations reservist served aboard HMS Prince of Wales as part of the Submarine Advisory Team. 

Their role supported underwater warfare coordination, ensuring smooth integration between surface and submarine operations during the task group’s return from the Pacific.

Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh spent the day immersed in the Isle of Wight’s creative heartbeat on Thursday, touring cultural hubs across the island that stretched from galleries to grassroots initiatives.

Beginning at Quay Arts in Newport he was joined by Lord Lieutenant Susie Sheldon as he explored exhibitions and met local arts organisations. 

Groups including Shademakers, The New Carnival Company, and IW Open Studios spoke with him about the growing range of artistic activity taking shape across the region.

Wandering through exhibitions by Andrew Dutton, Del Seymour, and Ian Whitmore, the Duke engaged with artists and heritage groups featuring work rooted in island life and identity. 

The visit also took him inside the Anthony Minghella Theatre, where attention turned to the “CAN YOU HEAR US?” programme, a creative community initiative delivered with Creative Island and Creative Lives.

The project is designed to support local expression through micro-grants, funding everything from craft workshops and music sessions.

Running from March to October 2026, it aims to amplify community voices and encourage wider participation in the arts.

During the visit, Edward met participants from a broad mix of groups, including Young Farmers, the IW Indonesian Community, In Focus, and HMP Isle of Wight, hearing how creative projects are helping people connect.

The itinerary continued beyond Newport, with further stops planned at Ventnor Exchange, Ventnor Arts Club, Brading Youth Club, and Brading Roman Villa.

He is expected to meet museum representatives and present the King’s Award for Voluntary Service at the village hall.