Royal's message to Aussies on Anzac Day: 'I would like to join you all'

The Royal Family have marked Anzac Day from lockdown in the UK, taking to social media to share their tributes as dawn services around the world are cancelled in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

One royal went a step further, sharing a poignant statement reflecting on this day of remembrance and joining Australians and New Zealanders as they observe the occasion.

The Queen's cousin Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, offered his "profound thanks" to the Australian and New Zealand armed forces past and present in a touching message shared to the Royal Family Instagram.

"On Anzac Day, we reflect on the extraordinary courage of the service men and women of Australia and New Zealand, who made the ultimate sacrifice in past conflicts and peacekeeping operations," the Duke wrote.

"While we cannot be together to make the occasion as planned, I know that Australians and New Zealanders around the world will be finding ways to ensure that Anzac Day is marked. I would like to join you all in your collective spirit of remembrance."

As president of The Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which pays tribute to the millions of men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the two world wars, Anzac Day is close to his heart.

Originally, the Duke was meant to attend the dawn service in London, but the event was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, which he referenced in his statement.

He added that he would also be reflecting on the frontline workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who continue to serve in the Australian and New Zealand armed forces.

"I shall also be pausing for a further moment of reflection for all those who are engaged in the fight against COVID-19," the statement read.

"Those who continue to serve within and beyond the Australian and New Zealand armed forces in this global fight reflect the best traditions of those who've served before, showing courage, determination and verve.

"I offer them my profound thanks."

Other royals also shared their thanks and tributes on social media to mark Anzac Day, the Queen and Prince Charles posting photos from services they've attended in the past.

Prince William and Kate Middleton also shared a tribute to their own Instagram page, where they encouraged people "to remember in spirit, instead of in person" during the pandemic.