Duchess of Edinburgh visits barracks in military uniform for competition as she begins five-day trip to Canada – without husband Prince Edward

• Sophie, 58, was all smiles as she greeted army personnel in St. Catharines
• She attended dinner in support of the Lincoln & Welland Regimental Foundation
• READ MORE: Sophie enjoys wine tasting as she begins five-day trip to Canada

The Duchess of Edinburgh visited barracks in military uniform yesterday as part of her five-day solo trip to Canada. 

Sophie, 58, was all smiles as she greeted army personnel at Lake Street Armoury Military barracks in St. Catharines.

The mother-of-two was at the base as she attended The Duchess of Edinburgh competition, which was hosted by the Lincoln and Welland Regiment.

The venue and challenges change each year and sees Sophie’s military affiliations come together to compete in a series of challenges.

This competition aims to test physical and mental strength through tough tasks but those who are victorious receive a trophy – called The Countess of Wessex Cup – presented by the Duchess herself. 

The Duchess of Edinburgh visited barracks in military uniform yesterday as part of her five-day solo trip to Canada 

The royal was dressed in camouflage jacket for the occasion, which had the Canadian flag on the sleeve.

The garment was even personalised with her title on the right pocket which read: ‘The Duchess of Edinburgh’ in white text. 

With Armistice Day is coming up on the 11 November, Sophie honoured those that fought during the World War by pinning a Poppy to her uniform. 

The Red Poppy – the symbol of the Royal British Legion – is a symbol of both Remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. Poppies are worn as a show of support for the Armed Forces community.

She opted for a practical look as she wore her blonde tresses pinned back from her face. The royal wore her signature pink glitzy eyeshadow – which matched her painted nails – and bold mascara. 

The Duchess donned simple swirled silver studs and sensible brown military-style boots, which she paired with forest green trousers. 

However by the evening, the Duchess selected a rather different attire. She changed out of her uniform and opted for an elegant evening frock instead.

The royal attended a dinner in support of the Lincoln & Welland Regimental Foundation. Guests were treated to a special performance by the Lincoln & Welland Association Band. 

She was snapped beaming alongside the Honorable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

Sophie, 58, was all smiles as she greeted army personnel at Lake Street Armoury Military barracks in St. Catharines

The royal was dressed in camouflage jacket for the occasion, which had the Canadian flag on the sleeve

By the evening, the Duchess selected a rather different attire. She changed out of her uniform and opted for an elegant evening frock instead

The Honorable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Sophie Duchess of Edinburgh were pictured together at the dinner 

The belle of the ball! Sophie looked stunning as she attended a dinner in support of the Lincoln & Welland Regimental Foundation

Sophie donned a sparkly mesh-sleeved maxi-dress, which she paired with a belt to show off her chic figure.

She matched the graceful look with a silver clutch bag, some grey open-toe heels and a Poppy pin badge.  

The Duchess – who arrived in Canada on Friday – also took part in an icewine tasting session yesterday as she visited a Canadian vineyard.

She spent the start of her Saturday visiting the Inniskillin Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, southern Ontario.

Today, the Duchess ‘will attend a Service of Remembrance at St Catherine’s Cenotaph, accompanied by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, before attending a reception to meet soldiers of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment and their families,’ according to the Royal website. 

And on her last day in Canada, 8 November, Sophie will spend three days visiting three sites at UHN: Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital and Toronto Rehab.

During her visits, she will meet those who are working on the frontline of these organisations – such as healthcare workers, researchers, Hospital supporters, volunteers, staff and also visit patients.

The royal will ‘hear more about the latest advancements in arthritis, vision and brain research, social and emergency medicine as well as innovations in cardiovascular care and the latest technologies in physical rehabilitation.’

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