Meghan and Harry pay respects to war dead at Westminster Abbey’s Field of Remembrance

The Duchess of Sussex has made her first visit to Westminster Abbey’s Field of Remembrance with her husband ahead of the national Remembrance Sunday ceremony.

Harry and Meghan viewed the plots of tiny crosses erected by regiments, military units and other organisations associated with the First World War and other conflicts.

It was originally thought the couple would be joined by the Duchess of Cornwall, however a statement from Clarence House said she would not attend due to a "chest infection which has got progressively worse over the last few days."

The Field of Remembrance has been organised by the Poppy Factory and held in the grounds of Westminster Abbey since November 1928, when only two Remembrance tribute crosses were planted.

Prince Harry, who has previously served in the British military, was pictured laying a cross at the memorial.

The small wooden memorial was placed surrounded by wreaths of poppies outside the ornate central London place of worship.

He was then followed by his wife, the Duchess of Sussex, who conducted the same routine.

Harry and Meghan then stood side-by-side as he saluted in memory of those who have lost their lives defending Britain in conflict around the globe.

The Duchess of Sussex pays her respects to those killed in conflict. Credit: PA

More than 70,000 crosses of the kind laid by Harry are made by a small team based in south-west London every year.

In the run-up to Remembrance Sunday, members of the monarchy are attending a series of events commemorating those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, culminating in the service at the Cenotaph, where the Queen and senior royals will gather to pay their respects.