Former Kent schoolgirl Sophie, Countess of Wessex, joined other senior members of the royal family this afternoon as they emerged from Balmoral to look at the tributes left following the death of the Queen.

Looking clearly emotional, she joined her husband, Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, the late Queen's youngest son, along with his siblings Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, and Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.

It was the first time they have been seen in public since the death of Elizabeth II was announced on Thursday evening.

Also looking at the floral tributes and gifts outside of the Scottish estate were Princess Anne's husband and two children - Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips - and Prince Andrew's daughters, princesses Eugenie and Beatrice.

The family were returning after a private service at the nearby Crathie Kirk church.

Sophie, who lived in Brenchley, near Tunbridge Wells, and attended Dulwich Prep in Cranbrook, Kent College in Pembury and then West Kent College in Tonbridge.

After marrying Edward, she developed a close bond with the Queen - becoming "like a daughter" to the former monarch, according to those close to the family.

The two were often seen enjoying each other's company over the years.

Charles III was formally proclaimed King in a ceremony in London this morning - an event televised for the first time.

The late Queen's body is expected to be moved from Balmoral tomorrow at 10am and travel to Edinburgh. On Tuesday, she will be taken to London and Buckingham Palace, ahead of a state funeral - details of which have still be be announced.

The King confirmed this morning that a bank holiday would be called on the day of her funeral - thought most likely to be Monday, September 19.