By Eleanor Gower


Royal glamour: Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex attended the official state dinner at the Official Residence of the Governor General of Barbados last night


With two young children keeping them busy at home, it's not too often that Prince Edward and Sophie get the chance to step out in their finery for official events after dark.

So the couple looked like they were clearly enjoying themselves in co-ordinated outfits as they stepped out in their evening wear for a state dinner in Barbados last night.

Sophie, 47, looked particularly glamorous in a floor length glamorous gown with a black ribbon with rose detail and matching shrug.


A diamond necklace, earrings and black clutch bag completed the look.

The Countess's outfit provided a perfect compliment to husband Prince Edward's black tuxedo, black bow tie and trousers.

The royal couple are at the Caribbean island on an official visit in celebration of The Queen's Diamond Jubilee


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

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

The dinner took place at the Governor General Elliot Belgrave's official residence on the island and is part of a whirlwind visit by the couple who arrived yesterday.

Prince Edward made a speech to the joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly yesterday where he told them that Barbados holds a special place in the Queen's heart.

'In particular, the progress Barbados has made in its 45 years as a sovereign state within the Commonwealth of Nations,' he added.

Sparkling: Sophie teamed her sparkling dress with a black shrug and diamond necklace

'She is touched that through all these years you have shown such loyalty and have steadfastly wanted her as your Queen and Head of State.

'Her affection towards you remains as strong and constant as the day, 60 years ago, when she acceded the Throne and pledged to dedicate Her life to the service of the people of her Realms and Territories.'

The couple have two children - James, three and eight-year-old Louise, who served as a bridesmaid at last year's wedding between Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge.


Good spirits: In Barbados to represent the Queen, Prince Edward and his wife share a joke at the dinner at one point



source:dailymail