Barbados celebrates the Royal Couple

In Barbados Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex - accompanied by his wife, Countess Sophie - addressed a Joint Sitting of Parliament in the Senate Chamber, held in commemoration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, praised the nation for its 'resilience' and urged to learn from the past in order to move forward.

He said: "Rarely has this been more important than now as all parts of the world struggle to overcome the past few years of international economic turmoil. As legislators and as leaders you are well aware of the responsibilities and difficulties you face as you seek firstly to safeguard your country's hard won economic and social gains in so volatile an environment, and then to prosper. To respond to these challenges, you will need courage, creativity and common sense, traits which have long characterised the Barbadian spirit. With trust in the resilience of your people, confidence in the future and faith in the Almighty, Barbados' continued development will be assured."

The royal couple's two-day visit on 23rd and 24th February began, when they arrived at the Bridgetown Port on board the HMS Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fort Rosalie. They were met by a group of dignitaries including Acting Governor General Elliott Belgrave and Mrs. Belgrave, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart, Chief Justice Marston Gibson, and Minister of International Business and International Transport George Hutson and inspected the Guard of Honour.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex joined Governor General Elliot Belgrave at his official residence along with Prime Minister Freundel Stuart.

The Barbadian visit culminated in an official state dinner at the Official Residence of the Governor General of Barbados on 24th February.

The royal couple wore co-ordinating outfits of black and white, with Countess Sophie sporting a long white gown with black ribbon and shrug detail.