Norwegian Princess Astrid dies aged 94

Just two weeks after the death of her brother King Harald V, Norwegian Princess Astrid died at the age of 94. “Aunt Astrid was an important support for King Harald and the rest of us in the family,” the Norwegian court quoted King Haakon VIII as saying in a statement. "We learned a lot from her and she wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Her death is a great loss to us. We will miss her."

Princess Astrid died on Friday, just two days after King Harald V's state funeral, which she attended. Her younger brother died in hospital at the end of August. After her death, the flag on the balcony of the Royal Palace in Oslo was again flown at half-mast.

She represented the royal family in a warm-hearted and dutiful way, the court further quoted King Haakon. She had to take on the role of First Lady at the age of 22 when her mother, Crown Princess Märtha, died. Caring for the most vulnerable in society has always been particularly important to her. “She was extremely loyal and always carried out her tasks with commitment, presence and an infectiously good mood.”

Princess Astrid had been in poor health for a long time. She only had a temporary pacemaker inserted in May. She still took on royal duties until the end.

“Thank you for being the best mom we could have asked for,” the court quoted the princess’ children as saying. “You were there for us all our lives – with love and wisdom, warmth and a lot of humor.” She was there for both her father King Olav and her brother Harald - "present, loyal and dutiful" - and showed "sincere compassion and care" for everyone who needed it. "Thank you for all the beautiful memories. You will always have a big place in our hearts."