Prince Edward has been commended after explaining the reason why he didn't shake hands with mourners outside Buckingham Palace following the death of the Queen. The Earl and Countess of Wessex were greeted and cheered by the crowd as they emerged from the place on Saturday afternoon.
Edward apologised as he met well-wishers and explained he was trying not to shake hands in order to meet more people. In comparison, his wife Sophie lagged behind as she shook hands with mourners outside the palace and accepted several bunches of flowers.
But the Queen’s youngest son could be heard explaining that he was simply trying to ensure he didn't fall behind as he attempted to speak to as many people as possible, reports the Daily Record. Edward asked the public where they had travelled from to pay their respects to his mother and politely waved as he walked past.
He later shook a mourner's hand, before explaining: "I've been trying to avoid it, only if I do it once, then I get everybody doing it." Edward and Sophie were greeted with cheers from the crowd as they emerged from the palace on Saturday afternoon.
The Queen’s youngest son asked many of the crowd members if they were planning to make their way to Green Park to lay flowers, where thousands of bunches have been left. Meanwhile, his wife was given bouquets and a stuffed toy as she shook hands with those gathered.
The Earl of Wessex has told mourners the Queen would "appreciate” the number of people paying their respects. Well-wishers could be heard telling Edward and Sophie "sorry for your loss” outside Buckingham Palace.
He told those in the crowd: "I know that my mother would really appreciate this fantastic support”. Fans praised his decision to not shake hands on social media, with one writing: 'Edward is wise. Saw Charles shake hands this morning and thought he’s exhausted and his resistance is low. The public contact is nice, but I hope he’s healthy for the funeral.'
Another commented: 'He's chosen to meet and chat with people, good for him. He's clearly not comfortable with shaking hands, it's not compulsory!'
A third added: 'Geez- Edward is out there greeting people, being friendly and thanking them for being there. Why isn’t that enough? Some people just don’t like being touched. Cut the man some slack - he and his family have been going non stop since the Queen died.'
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