The Duchess of Edinburgh is a vision in Suzannah London florals as she supports one of her most treasured charities

The Duchess of Edinburgh took a dive through the royal fashion archives on 23 September, as she got straight back to work following her tour of Zambia with a reception celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Royal Mencap Society.

Sophie, who inherited patronage of the Society following the death of former Royal Patron, the Queen Mother, in 2002, wore one of her favourite outfits for the occasion. A vision in florals, the Duchess re-wore the Suzannah London ‘grandad’ dress, previously seen when she supported King Charles at the King’s Award for Enterprise ceremony in Windsor Castle last year. Sophie completed her look on Wednesday with her Strathberry mosaic nano bag and her trusted espadrilles from Penelope Chilvers.

The Duchess of Edinburgh was in high spirits as she joined patients, families and caregivers at the event. She was delighted to receive a chocolate lollipop in the shape of her face from The Traitors finalist Alexander Dragonetti, and she enjoyed a warm reunion with Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Goldstein, who performed for the Duchess at St James’ Palace earlier this year.

In a conversation with guest of honour Geoffrey Leer, 80, the Duchess of Edinburgh spoke of why she is so proud to support the charity. ‘What makes Mencap special is meeting lovely people like you. Things have changed a lot during your lifetime for people with a learning disability, which is good. They have a voice and opinions, and that’s being listened to,’ Sophie said.

‘The next challenge is to have more opportunities for people in workplaces. People with a learning disability are life enhancers. A lot more people are taking interest in giving people with a learning disability opportunities, but there’s a long way to travel .’