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“It’s very nice to be back”: Meghan Markle makes first public appearance in UK

The Sussexes braved the rain as they made their first joint public appearance together in the UK after announcing they were stepping down from being senior working royals.

The pair attended the annual Endeavour Fund Awards at London’s Mansion House, of which Harry is a patron.

The Duke wore a dark blue suit, white shirt and a blue tie whereas the Duchess wore a turquoise Victoria Beckham pencil midi dress.

A crowd of about 50 eagerly braved the rain to catch a glimpse of the couple, where Meghan said it was "very nice to be back" in the UK.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were there to honour the achievements of wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women who have taken part in sporting and adventure challenges over the last year.

Duchess Meghan presented the Celebrating Excellence Award and Duke Harry presented the Henry Worsley Award.

Harry has been made to give up his official patronages after deciding to step down as a working royal, but is able to retain his private links to organisations, including the Endeavour Fund.

At a reception, Harry and Meghan chatted to Claire Spencer, 52, whose husband Lee ‘Frank’ Spencer was nominated for an award.

When asked what she thought about their decision to step back, she explained to The Daily Mail:

“I think he does an amazing job, as does she, and we should just let them lives the life they want to live. I know what a difference Endeavour has made to my husband's life since he lost a leg and I hold Harry personally responsible for that. Life is too short.”

Harry was thrilled to be attending the event and made his thoughts known to a nominee before posing with them for a picture alongside Meghan.

“We create this opportunity for you guys. You are the ones that pick it up. Respect,” Harry said.

The event is just one of many engagements that the couple are undertaking this weekend before returning to Canada ahead of their official departure on March 31.

Scroll through the gallery to see how the Duke and Duchess of Sussex looked on the night.

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