The Duchess of Kent's coffin has been taken to Westminster Cathedral ahead of her funeral on Tuesday.

In keeping with Catholic tradition, the coffin was transported from Kensington Palace into the cathedral on Monday for a series of private funeral rites attended by the duchess's immediate family, including the Duke of Kent's siblings, Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra.

Among the planned rites due to be undertaken by Bishop James Curry, auxiliary bishop of Westminster and titular bishop of Ramsbury, are a Vigil for the Deceased, a Rite of Reception - which usually involves the coffin being sprinkled with holy water - and evening prayers known as Vespers.

Image: The Duchess of Kent at the Wimbledon Championships in 2012. File pic: PA

Image: The Duchess of Kent's funeral

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