German president lays wreath at Coventry Cathedral ruins

German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier has taken part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the ruins of the original Coventry Cathedral.

The city, including the cathedral, was heavily bombed by Germany’s air force during World War Two.

The president was joined by his wife Elke Budenbender on the final day of their state visit to the UK.

A wreath was also laid on behalf of the Duke of Kent, who accompanied President Steinmeier to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Coventry Blitz.

The state visit is the first by a German leader in 27 years.

A wreath of black, yellow and red flowers and a German flag was laid by a cadet on the old cathedral’s altar, which bears a cross made of charred roof timbers and the words “Father Forgive” inscribed on the wall behind.

Three other wreaths, with white and red flowers, were also placed on to the ground.

During the Coventry Blitz in November 1940, 568 people were killed and 4,300 homes destroyed in the city.

The president and his wife were shown inside the city’s new cathedral, which was consecrated in 1962.

A prayer service was held to highlight the church’s commitment to peace and reconciliation led by the Dean of Coventry, the Very Reverend John Witcombe.

Coventry is twinned with the German cities of Kiel and Dresden in recognition of the shared experience of aerial bombings during the conflict.

“Coventry and Dresden share a story shaped by destruction, rebuilding and courageous friendship,” said Mr Witcombe in the service.

“Yet our gathering stands for more than the bond between two cities.

“It speaks of the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and Germany – nations that have walked through the devastations of war, embraced reconciliation and now stand side by side as advocates for peace in Europe and across the world.”

The last German state visit took place in 1998, when Queen Elizabeth II hosted president Roman Herzog at Windsor Castle.