King Charles is thought to have expressed his condolences following the sad death of Lady Elizabeth Kerr, the Duchess of Buccleuch who passed away aged 68 after a short spell in hospital.
The sad news was confirmed via a statement on behalf of her family which read: "The Duke of Buccleuch and his family have announced that, very sadly, on Sunday morning the duchess died after a short illness following an operation.
"The duchess was the most wonderful, life-enhancing spirit and our hearts go out to the family as they come to terms with their loss."
© GettyShe is survived by her husband, four children and 11 grandchildren. There will be a private family service in the Scottish Borders, with a service to celebrate her life to be announced at a later date.
The family owns four estates in central Scotland, the Scottish Borders – where they serve as the Duke and Duchess of Queensberry – and rural Northamptonshire.
The Duke of Buccleuch is poised to play a key role in the King's upcoming coronation ceremony which takes place on Saturday. He will be carrying the Sceptre with Cross, a piece of Royal regalia, to the altar at Westminster Abbey.
© GettyThe monarch's coronation is expected to be a "reflection" of the monarch's role in today's society while being "rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry".
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King Charles' coronation will involve six basic stages based on the sections contained in the Second Recension used in 973 for King Edgar: The recognition, the oath, the anointing, the investiture, the enthronement, and the homage.
© GettyIn the most sacred part of the ceremony, The Archbishop of Canterbury will use the golden eagle-shaped ampulla to pour the holy oil into a 12th century silver-gilt anointing spoon. He will then proceed to anoint Charles in the form of a cross, covering his hands, head and breast.
The anointing ritual is hidden from view by means of a canopy of silk or cloth of gold held by four Knights of the Garter.
