The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid tribute to Katharine, Duchess of Kent, following her death

They said: "Our thoughts today are with The Duke of Kent and his family, particularly George, Helen and Nicholas.

"The Duchess worked tirelessly to help others and supported many causes, including through her love of music. She will be a much missed member of the family."

Katharine was admired for her determination to carve out her own path, her lifelong dedication to charity work and her deep passion for music.

The Duchess, who was born Katharine Lucy Mary Worsley on 22 February 1933 in Yorkshire, married Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, in 1961 and went on to combine royal duties with an independent life of teaching and philanthropy.

Her death was confirmed in a statement released on the Royal Family's official social media account.

The statement read: "It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Kent.

"Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family. The King and Queen and all Members of The Royal Family join The Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly The Duchess's life-long devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people."

Katharine is survived by her husband Edward, 89, and their three children - George, Earl of St Andrews, 62, Lady Helen Taylor, 60, and Lord Nicholas Windsor, 55.

Her final public appearance was in October 2024 in a photograph marking Edward's 89th birthday.

Buckingham Palace confirmed that a period of seven days of official mourning will be observed, with flags flown at half mast and a notice displayed at the gates of the Palace.

Funeral arrangements will be private, though a full Royal Family turnout is expected.