King and Queen express deep sadness at Pope's death

The King and Queen have expressed their "most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy" following the death of Pope Francis.

Charles and Camilla had a moving meeting with the ailing 88-year-old while he was convalescing just 12 days ago.

The couple's historic state visit to the Vatican in early April was cancelled because of the Pope's poor health, but they managed to visit the head of the Roman Catholic Church privately during their trip to Italy.

The King, in an official message released following the news of the pontiff's death on Monday, said he and Camilla were "most deeply saddened".

The Union flag will be flown half-mast at royal residences where Charles is not in residence as a mark of respect and sombre music will be played at the Changing of the Guard ceremonies.

A member of the royal family is expected to attend the Pope's funeral, if the Vatican is in agreement, but it is too early to say who will travel to pay their respects.

The King said: "My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis.

"Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.

"His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others.

"Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many."

Charles and Camilla's meeting with the Pope in what would be his final weeks was arranged at the last minute and took place on their 20th wedding anniversary on April 9, with the pontiff wanting to personally wish them a happy anniversary.

A senior palace official would later say the royal couple found the meeting "very significant and special".

Twenty years ago, Charles and Camilla's marriage ceremony was postponed with just four days because it clashed with the funeral of Pope John Paul II.

The King met Pope Francis twice as the Prince of Wales, but the visit in April was his first as monarch and head of the Church of England.

The pair are said to have had huge respect for one another.

When Queen Elizabeth II died in 2022, the Pope sent his "heartfelt condolences" to Charles, the new sovereign, in a telegram.

He said he joined all in mourning her loss and paid tribute to "her life of unstinting service to the good of the nation and the Commonwealth, her example of devotion to duty, her steadfast witness of faith".