A close A-list pal of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex is swapping the sunshine of Montecito for the Cotswolds in the UK, in a shocking reversal of Harry and Meghan’s big move in 2020

A close A-list pal of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex could be saying saying goodbye to the US for good after the results of the recent presidential election.

Ellen DeGeneres is reportedly planning to swap the sunshine of her Montecito mansion for the picturesque Cotswolds, which has many famous residents, in a shocking reversal of Meghan and Harry’s royal exit nearly five years ago.

Ellen, 66, and her wife actress Portia De Rossi, 51, are reported to have already purchased a luxurious mansion in the Cotswolds – an area which is close to Harry and Meghan’s former home, and a place many of the Royal Family maintain residences, including King Charles’s Gloucestershire residence of Highgrove House.

Back when Meghan and Harry lived in Frogmore Cottage, Ellen is said to have visited the couple and even helped chip in with one of Prince Archie’s feeds when he was only a baby – and seems to have spent a significant amount of time in rural parts of the UK more recently. She and Portia were spotted only last week at Jeremy Clarkson’s pub The Farmer’s Dog where they spent time in the company of musician James Blunt – and last year Ellen was reported to have attended a lavish party in a stately Oxfordshire home.

The former chat show host and her wife are said to be poised to sell their own Montecito mansion after buying a UK property, and while the Sussexes show no signs of leaving the sunshine of California behind just yet – Harry and Meghan are reported to have recently bought a home in Portugal, the first home they will have had this side of the Atlantic since they were “evicted” from Frogmore Cottage in 2023 and handed back the keys.

Ellen and Portia were recently seen at Jeremy Clarkson’s Cotswolds pub ( 
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instagram.com/thefarmersdogpub)
The Cotswolds are deemed by many to be one of the most picturesque parts of the UK, and the rolling hillside that makes up the area spans several counties including Wiltshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, and Gloucestershire, amongst others. It is also home to a rural version of the members club Soho House that both Meghan and Harry are members of, and stayed at during their early courtship.

Ellen and her wife Portia are said to be “very disillusioned” by Trump’s recent victory and the couple intend to “get the hell out” of the United States, the Daily Mail reports.

According to People magazine, Meghan became fast friends with Ellen after they happened to bump into each other at a dog shelter when the chat show host and comedian encouraged Meghan to adopt a dog there.

“Ellen goes ‘Is that your dog?’ And I said, ‘No,’ and she’s like, ‘You have to take that dog.’ And I said, ‘Well, I’m deciding.’ And she’s like, ‘Rescue the dog!’ ” Meghan has explained. “It’s sort of like if Oprah tells you to do something. I’m sitting there holding him and she’s like ‘Have you thought of a name for him yet?’ And I said, ‘Well, I think I’d name him Bogart,’ and she’s like ‘You’re taking the dog home.’” Meghan jokingly added, “So I brought him home. Because Ellen told me to.”

Ellen and Meghan are said to have been friends for a long time ( 
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PA)
The two women have been neighbours as well as pals for several years now, and Meghan appeared on Ellen’s chat show back in 2021 before it went off the air.

Amid controversy about staff treatment, The Ellen DeGeneres Show ended after 19 years in 2022 after 36 staff members complained about incidents that created a “toxic workplace” the year before.

Ellen joked that she had been “kicked out of show business”, but the controversy somewhat echoed the allegations of bullying made against Meghan with her own members of staff while a working royal – something she has denied and a statement made on her behalf, branding it a “calculated smear campaign.”

Whether Ellen’s new base in the Cotswolds will be enough to persuade Meghan and Harry to quit Montecito too seems unlikely, but the presence of her close pal in her former home might be an enticement for the Duchess to return more regularly to the UK for visits.

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When Meghan Markle got engaged to Prince Harry, the whole world turned its attention to the Markle family and Samantha Markle said this irked her relatives in the US

Meghan Markle’s despairing half-sister Samantha Markle said she is surprised at how the former actress has previously “mocked” the Royal family.

Samantha, 60, has become estranged from her paternal half-sibling as Samantha claims Meghan’s relationship with Harry has put strain on the rest of the family, including Samantha’s mother Roslyn

Roslyn died in early October. Speaking publicly for the first time since her loss, Samantha fought back the tears to say: “Meghan has no idea what she is missing out on because when my dad (Thomas) goes, it will be too late. Believe me, I know. You can’t get back that time. It leaves a hole in your heart.

“I don’t know the Royal family. I’m just a human, watching from across the pond, but I couldn’t believe it… My dad doesn’t want Meghan to pay him back. But you want love from them because there is a pain in your heart if it isn’t there. I didn’t want my mom to die feeling she was alone, and not loved. I almost left it too late. They could both learn from me.”

Samantha Markle has spoken out again about her half-sister Meghan ( 
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Sunrise)

When Meghan got engaged to Harry, the whole world turned its attention to the Markle family and all its dysfunction. The family has reportedly drifted apart and now Samantha fears Thomas, 80, has little time left having had two heart attacks and a stroke in recent years.

Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in May 2018
But in recent years, Samantha has expressed her hurt that Meghan has suggested Harry’s clan was the big family she “never had”. Yet, the Duchess of Sussex quit her royal life in 2020 and left the UK for the US with Harry, two years after they exchanged vows. Meghan has given scathing interviews about The Firm since, and mimicked curtseying to the Queen during the couple’s 2022 Netflix docuseries.

In recent years, Meghan has worked on Netflix shows with her husband ( 
Image:
SIPA USA/PA Images)

Meghan and Harry announced their decision to step back from the royal family in 2020 ( 
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Anadolu via Getty Images)Samantha, a mother of three, said: “I never thought I would see Meghan do what she has done to the Royal Family. She’s done what she did to her own family to so many other people, too. I knew my dad had suffered, but I thought she would stop at the Queen.” Samantha said, during her interview with the Daily Mail last night, Harry “allowed” his wife to “mock” the late monarch with the act.

But Meghan was reportedly close to Samantha when she grew up. She was born two years after Meghan’s mum Doria Ragland, 68, married Thomas. Now, Samantha desperately wants Meghan, the former actress, to get in touch with their father, although she remains pessimistic.

“If you accept an olive branch, you are asking to be hurt again. I think that would be weird. It would be hard to trust that she was doing it for the right reasons. I think what makes me sad now is there were so many missed opportunities for love and real family,” Samantha added.

Queen Elizabeth II was reportedly upset about a remark Donald Trump made concerning her sister Princess Margaret during a visit to the UK when he was US President

The Queen was “very annoyed” at a remark Donald Trump is believed to have made about her late sister Princess Margaret, reports this morning claim.

Although Mr Trump, 78, has claimed he was Queen Elizabeth II’s “favourite president”, he allegedly caused an upset during his reign as US leader when he and wife Melania made a visit to the UK.

A source involved in arranging the trip told reporters today: “Trump put his foot in it by saying Margaret must have been a difficult sister. The Queen was very annoyed with this remark, which she viewed as ignorant and hurtful. She always defended Margaret to the hilt.”

Princess Margaret, the Queen’s only sibling, died in 2002 aged 71, after she had her fourth stroke in as many years. Her marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, frequently made headlines as both engaged in extramarital affairs before they separated in 1976 and divorced in 1978.

Princess Margaret (left) poses with the Queen (right) and their mother on the balcony of Buckingham Palace in 2000 ( 
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Jonathan Buckmaster/Daily Express)
The Queen, though, always supported her younger sister despite the negative publicity aid the 18-year marriage. It’s not clear why Mr Trump made the alleged comment, however, but the remark in 2018 happened after The Crown on Netflix had portrayed Margaret as rebellious, volatile and resentful of her elder sister. The second season had not long aired on Netflix, and covered the first four years of Margaret’s marriage to Lord Snowdon, a British photographer.

But Mr Trump, set to return for another tenure as US President, said the comments were “totally false’. He told the Daily Mail: “I heard I was her favourite president. I had a great relationship with the Queen. She liked me and I liked her. She was an amazing woman.”

Margaret was portrayed in the first two seasons of The Crown by Vanessa Kirby, before Helena Bonham Carter had the part for series three and four, and Lesley Manville played the role for seasons five and six. Margaret’s decision not to marry Peter Townsend also featured heavily, with the Queen and her government shown opposing her desire to marry the divorced Group Captain flying ace, which would have required the monarch’s permission under the Royal Marriages Act 1772.

In reality, a plan was made to amend the Act to allow the marriage while removing Margaret and her children from the line of succession.

Kate Middleton sends moving message to those suffering from addiction as she emphasises importance of ‘simple acts of kindness’

 

The Princess of Wales has issued a moving message of support to those suffering from addiction.

Emphasising the importance of ‘simple acts of kindness’ and understanding, Catherine said it was important not to ‘judge or criticise’ those affected but to understand they are suffering from a ‘serious mental health condition’.

The Princess, who announced in September that she would make a slow and measured return to royal duties after completing a course of preventative chemotherapy following major abdominal surgery in January, issued a message in her role as Patron of the Forward Trust to support Addiction Awareness Week, which begins tomorrow.

She writes: ‘It has been heartening to see that progress is still being made to end the stigma surrounding those battling addiction. For too long, many have suffered in silence, harbouring feelings of shame and guilt about their condition, despite their vulnerability.

‘Everyone suffering from addiction is another human being, with a story of their own, which many of us don’t understand or see.

‘It is not our place to judge or criticise, we must take the time to sit by someone’s side, learning the values of love and empathy.

‘Being a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, these simple acts of kindness are crucial in breaking down the misunderstandings that so many face. ‘

The princess insisted that addiction was ‘not a choice’ and that no-one was immune from its grip.

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The Princess of Wales, 42, has delivered a powerful new message about addiction and recovery for Taking Action on Addiction

In a message that the Prince and Princess of Wales have reshared on X, mother-of-three Kate encourages people to show empathy towards those battling addiction

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The Princess of Wales has issued a moving message of support to those suffering from addiction. Kate is pictured in October meeting the families of those who were victims of the Southport attacks

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Kate is pictured talking to families of recovered addicts at the launch of the Forward Trust’s Taking Action on Addiction in 2021

She added: ‘Addiction is not a choice. It is a serious mental health condition that could affect any one of us. By acting with humility and compassion we can all make a difference and support those who are suffering.

‘Many charities up and down the country are guiding individuals and families through the toughest of times. But they cannot do it alone.

‘It is up to each and every one of us to change the way we think about and consider the many people coping with addiction. Because recovery is possible.’

The princess will be seen next week as she takes part in her most significant public engagement since she effectively withdrew from public duties to focus on her health at the start of the year.

She and Prince William will represent the King at the State Visit of the Amir of Qatar, greeting the ruler and his wife at their London residence and escorting them to Horse Guards for an official ceremonial welcome.

She is also working on last minute arrangements for next Friday’s ‘Together At Christmas’ annual carol service at Westminster Abbey.

Royal aides said today’s message around the importance of empathy will also be a theme of the service.

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The princess insisted that addiction was ‘not a choice’ and that no-one was immune from its grip. Pictured visiting Brynawel Rehabilitation in 2023

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Kate pictured during the first annual gala dinner in recognition of Addiction Awareness Week in 2019

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The princess said: ‘It is up to each and every one of us to change the way we think about and consider the many people coping with addiction. Because recovery is possible.’ Pictured in 2019 attending a gala in recognition of Addiction Awareness Week

Working with those suffering from addiction has long been an issue high up on the Princess’s agenda.

Addiction Awareness Week is something she has advocated strongly in the past. She has been at the forefront of Addiction Awareness Week for several years running, offering her support and heartfelt words to those battling addiction.

Since the very beginning of her royal tenure, Catherine has been passionate about the issue. One of the first charities of which she became a patron of was Action on Addiction.

The princess has also  been a patron of the Forward Trust since 2021, which offers support via an online chat service for people struggling with addiction, as well as other social issues including homelessness, unemployment and criminal offences.

According the charity, 45 per of British adults aged 18 to 75 – around 22 million people – have either experienced addiction or dependency on alcohol, drugs, medication, gambling or sex themselves or are close to someone who has.

Last year, Catherine visited a prison in Surrey ahead of the annual month to raise awareness about addiction. The princess shadowed a family during a normal visit, where she served usual protocol and was checked my sniffer dogs.

There, she heard of the work the Forward Trust were doing to rehabilitate prisoners including a Stepping Stones programme to help those maintain abstinence from alcohol and drugs.

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The Princess of Wales during a visit to Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre near the town of Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan, to hear about the work they do to support those struggling with the effects of drug and alcohol addiction in Feb 2023

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At the event three years ago, Catherine spoke to TV presenters Ant and Dec, with the former opening up about his previous experience battling addiction to painkillers

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The Duchess of Cambridge talking to families of recovered addicts at the launch of the Forward Trust’s Taking Action on Addiction campaign at BAFTA, London. Picture date: Tuesday October 19, 2021

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In 2021, Kate and William visited homeless charity The Passage, speaking to frontline workers about challenges including drug addiction and mental health issues

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The Princess of Wales pats a dog during a visit to Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre in February 2023

The theme for last year’s Addiction Awareness Week was ‘Everyone Knows Someone’, recognising the widespread impact it has on everyone.

At the time, the princess said: ‘This year, we are reflecting on how ‘Everyone Knows Someone’ affected by addiction.

‘I hope, by talking more openly, we can consider the people in our own lives and communities who have been impacted.

‘Addiction affects people in so many ways beyond that one person who is experiencing it themselves – be they parents, children, siblings, friends or neighbours.

‘By understanding their experiences, and starting from a position of compassion and empathy, we can help to break the cycle.

‘Addiction is not a choice. It is a serious mental health condition. And with the right support delivered by wonderful charities like The Forward Trust, recovery is possible,’ she concluded.

In 2021, Catherine also supported the charity’s Taking Action on Addiction Awareness week. At an event held by Forward Trust, the then Duchess of Cambridge delivered a passionate speech on the devastating impact of addiction, while emphasising the importance of battling misinformation.

At the event three years ago, Catherine spoke to TV presenters Ant and Dec, with the former opening up about his previous experience battling addiction to painkillers.

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The Princess of Wales, 42, continued her return to public duties as she attended Remembrance events earlier this month

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The Princess of Wales will host her annual Christmas carol concert this year, Kensington Palace has announced. Pictured at the 2022 service

This year the campaign is focusing on the fact that addiction affects everyone, but recovery is possible.

Running from November 20 to December 7, and now in its fourth year, the campaign will provide an intense focus on addiction and recovery and its impact on people in the media.

It comes after the Princess of Wales paid tribute to aspiring photographer Liz Hatton, who passed away yesterday morning at the age of 17.

Liz, from Harrogate, Yorkshire, died in the early hours of Tuesday morning, her mother Vicky Robayna, announced on X/Twitter last night, after a battle with desmoplastic small round cell tumour, a rare and extremely aggressive form of cancer.

Posting a heartfelt message on the same social media platform, as well as their Instagram story, the royal couple wrote: ‘We are so sorry to hear that Liz Hatton has sadly passed away. It was an honour to have met such a brave and humble young woman.

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz’s parents Vicky and Aaron and her brother Mateo at this unimaginably difficult time.’ The parents-of-three signed off the message with their initials, ‘W & C’, indicating they had written the tribute personally.

Tragically, Liz passed away days before she was due to celebrate an early Christmas with her family.

Speaking to the Mail last night, Vicky said: ‘Our lovely Liz died in the early hours of this morning. She remained determined to her last. Even yesterday she was telling me that I had better get nurses sorted so she could do more things.

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Liz Hatton made headlines after she was invited to Windsor Castle to photograph an investiture, where she found herself meeting the Prince and Princess of Wales

The Prince and Princess of Wales posted on X/Twitter to share their sadness at the death of Liz Hatton, who passed away in the early ours of Wednesday morning

Cancer-stricken teen hugged by Kate reflects on meeting the princess

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Liz Hatton, the talented teen photographer who moved the royals with her candid cancer journey, has passed away aged

‘She went out in a blaze of glory with almost everyone she cared out seeing her for the last time at her exhibition last week.’

Kate, an amateur photographer herself, first met Liz at Windsor Castle at the beginning of October, when the 17-year-old was invited by the Prince and Princess of Wales to take photos of Prince William carrying out investitures that day – giving her the chance to capture famous faces including Mark Cavendish.

Earlier this month, the Princess of Wales attended events for remembrance as she continues her slow and measured return to royal duties following her treatment for chemotherapy.

She has also been confirmed to be hosting her annual Together At Christmas carol concert on Christmas Eve on ITV.

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Prince Harry and Meghan were back in the spotlight this week with the Duke forced to address divorce rumours after the couple’s ‘professional split’. And it seems they are on different paths…

Prince Harry was forced to address divorce rumours after continuous speculation that the Sussexes are close to calling it quits.

Harry and Meghan have only been seen together in public on two occasions in the last four months; in a video message where they talked about prioritising children’s safety online, and during their highly-publicised tour of Colombia back in August.

Since then, they have made a string of telling solo appearances, including last night. The Duke of Sussex was in New York, where he appeared at The New York Times Dealbook Summit, while his wife Meghan attended a glitzy celeb-filled event in Beverly Hills, honouring her pal and filmmaker Tyler Perry.

According to a source close to the couple, the reason for the separate appearances is a shift in their ventures. Meghan is reportedly focused on her businesses while Harry pursues his charitable endeavours.

Royal expert Duncan Larcombe spoke to the Mirror about what the ‘professional split’ is really about, and noted a major shift in the couple’s dynamic. He said: “I think it’s been a really interesting development because when they first arrived in California, they were a power couple with their own similar agendas – which was criticising the royal family.

“Now they’ve got through that, it seems Meghan has really started to carve her own path career-wise and Harry too has done jobs without Meghan, been to official visits without her. It certainly looks from the outside looking in that there is this separation between them, in terms of what their priorities are. I think that’s a really interesting development because it does beg the question ‘What are they all about?’ Are they a commercial entity or are they royals without a portfolio?

“It’s a bit confusing to know what’s actually driving them, other than trying to make money if you’re Meghan, and from Harry’s point of view, trying to prove that you’re still a decent chap who is hardworking.” It’s been a difficult week for the couple, who have been thrust back into the spotlight following the release of a new documentary from Germany titled Harry – The Lost Prince.

It was made by award-winning filmmaker Ulrike Grunewald, who spoke to the couple’s Montecito neighbours, royal experts and former acquaintances to explore Harry ‘s struggles within the Royal Family and the Sussexes’ search for relevance following their exit from royal life in January 2020.

The documentary might make for uncomfortable viewing for the Sussexes, who are criticised for their “whinging” over the royal family, “only mixing with upper classes” on their “carefully orchestrated” foreign trips, and Meghan’s out-of-touch expensive tour wardrobes.

Harry, meanwhile, addressed speculation about his relationship with wife during an appearance at The New York Times’ DealBook Summit on Wednesday. During his conversation with Andrew Ross Sorkin, the Prince was asked how he navigates the intense public scrutiny that comes with his level of fame, which is often aimed at his relationship status with Meghan.

“There’s articles left and right about, you know, ‘Why are you doing independent events? Why aren’t you doing them together?’” Sorkin said. “Is that a good thing for you, in a way, that there’s so much interest in you?”

Harry reflected that the media speculation is “definitely not a good thing,” adding: “We’ve apparently divorced maybe 10, 12 times as well. So, it’s just like, what?”

“It’s hard to keep up with, but that’s why you just sort of ignore it,” Harry continued. “The people I feel most sorry about are the trolls. Their hopes are just built and built… and then it doesn’t happen. So, I feel sorry for them.”

The Duke of Sussex was forced to address rumours he and wife Meghan Markle were possibly getting a divorce after both making a number of solo appearances

Prince Harry has laughed off rumours he and wife Meghan Markle are getting divorced, after making a solo appearance at a book summit.

The Sussexes’s love life has come under speculation again after Meghan was spotted at a red carpet in Beverly Hills while the Duke attended the New York Times’ DealBok Summit a thousands miles away. While on stage and speaking to NYT columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin, the ginger prince said addressed why he had his wife aren’t often seen together.

He told Mr Sorkin: “Because you invited me, you should have known.” Harry went on to laugh at rumours the distance could mean a crack, and possible divorce, were forming in the marriage. He added: “Apparently we’ve bought or moved house 10, 12 times. We’ve apparently divorced maybe 10, 12 times as well. So it’s just like, what?”

Meghan Markle was pictured at a red carpet event in Beverly Hills ( 
Image:
AFP via Getty Images)
Despite this seemingly jokey response, some experts have claimed it could be an insight into trouble and some inner turmoil. Royal author Hugo Vickers told The Sun: “He said that all the pundits must be very disappointed, and he felt sorry for them that none of these things actually happened. What else can he say? He must be roundly fed up with all the kind of speculation that’s been going on over his whole life, ever since he was a little boy, so in that respect I sympathise with him.”

Mr Vickers admitted he thought the royal duo were better off doing their own thing as they thrived better without the other by their said. ” Harry’s much better when he’s on his own talking about things without her there,” he explained. “And perhaps she’s better on doing what she does without him there, because he always looks a little bit spare. You could suggest that she’s making a move to be an independent person in her own right, I mean, we know who she is now, thanks to her marrying Prince Harry. She’s got much more of an identity.”

On the other hand, the expert has suspicions the duos solo appearances may be a tactic to avoid tensions in their household and is also a way for the pair to “reinvent” themselves.

Prince Harry joked that the pair had apparently been divorced “10 or 12 times” ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
Mr Vickers said: “They’re always having to try and keep focused in the public eye. And so if this is a strategy that he will do things on his own, and she will do things on her own, then you can be fairly certain that it’s been well thought out by them, and that there wouldn’t be any particular tension involved.”

At his appearance on Wednesday, Harry told of how he was enjoying life in America, before saying his focus was now on “being the best husband and the best dad that I can be”. He added: “I very much enjoy living here and bringing up my kids here.” The Prince believes he has some more freedom in the states to do activities with his children he couldn’t do in the UK. He is still locked in a legal battle with the Home Office over his taxpayer-funded security.

The Duke also told the NYT columnist he opposes a social media ban for children because it could lead to family arguments and bullying by classmates. Instead, he said such companies should be subject to greater transparency and accountability.

He claims said he believes social media is meant to be intentionally addictive so banning it can “create problems”. He added: “I try to think at these things through the lens as a dad. “It’s not a coincidence that the world has become more volatile and more divided since social media has been around for 20 years.”

Body language expert Judi James has analysed the Duke of Sussex’s body language when congratulating the winner of a Diana Award, as he beams with joy talking about his late mother

Prince Harry shows glimpses of his mother’s signature expressions as he joyfully speaks about her while congratulating a Diana Award winner, a body language expert has revealed.

Judi James analysed his behaviour as he appeared at the ceremony set up in memory of his late mother. Sadly, Harry and Prince William’s bitter feud spilled out at the event as the pair failed to appear alongside each other. The Duke of Sussex, who continues to be estranged from his brother since quitting his royal role and moving to the United States in 2020, meanwhile, has recorded a video message which will be played during the virtual Diana Award ceremony on Thursday.

Speaking about the Prince’s body language, Judi said: “Virtual events are challenging in terms of looking relaxed and natural when you’re just staring at a screen but Harry seems to have mastered the art, and appearing as the ‘special guest’ here he allows his passion for the project that has his mother’s name on it and which is all about inspiring young people, to take precedence over any awkwardness or nerves.

Harry congratulated the Diana Awards winners ( 
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Diana awards)
“His very bashful smile at the start is a coy beam that looks so similar to one of his mother’s signature facial expressions, suggesting that the cause and the audience have created some subliminal mirroring.

“Harry giggles slightly at his intro and rocks to one side to suggest an upbeat approach here. Talking about how some problems are too big for one person to tackle appears to strike a chord of empathy as he rubs his hands on his thighs, adding a motivational elbow-pump gesture as he refers to a ‘fairer world’ that seems to be his goal.

“When he mentions ‘my mother’ his fingers mesh together and his hands cup in a collusive ritual, showing how she was an agent for inclusion and togetherness. At the end we see a reappearance of ‘fun’ Harry via a mouth curl and a cute little clapping gesture for the recipients of the awards.”

The Prince of Wales wrote a letter, which was posted on Wednesday, praising the ‘extraordinary’ recipients for their “kindness and compassion”, and telling them: “My mother… would be immensely proud of you.” The prince, in his letter on Kensington Palace headed notepaper, describes how the ” world can feel an uncertain and unfamiliar place”, and he praises the winners for overcoming barriers to “make positive change”.

The royal brothers have a long-running rift which worsened in the wake of the allegations Harry levelled at William and thePrincess of Walesin hisNetflixdocumentary and Spare autobiography.

Their fractured relationship shows no sign of healing despite the health troubles faced by the royal family in 2024. The Diana Award said the charity, which is marking 25 years since it was set up in honour of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, “has the support of both her sons, HRH The Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex”.

The Queen continues to recover from her recent pneumonia battle and admitted she is still a ‘bit tired’ as she attended an event discussing the ‘terrible’ horrors of domestic violence

The Queen said she hopes to be able to turn the tide of domestic violence.

Camilla held a reception yesterday to mark the 50th anniversary of Women’s Aid. At the event, she reiterated her vow never to stop campaigning on behalf of women who have survived domestic abuse. She added: “I have no intention, now I’ve started, to stop and I am determined to put an end to this.

“We have all got to pull together. You are all doing a wonderful job, and we will put an end to it, probably not in my lifetime, but in some of yours.” The Queen has recently suffered from pneumonia and has scaled back her work schedule in recent weeks as she takes time to recover.

She told charity representatives at the event: “I am still a bit tired. It catches up a bit”. Many attendees congratulated the Queen on the success of her recent ITV documentary, Her Majesty the Queen: Behind Closed Doors, which explored her many years of work in the field.

Queen Camilla talks to Ashley James, Katie Piper and Alice Liveing, Women’s Aid ambassadors ( 
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One of the survivors who took part was Alice Liveing, who was abused by her partner at the age of 16. Miss Liveing, who is now a Women’s Aid ambassador, said: “I asked how she was feeling. She said she was feeling pretty tired but was trying to juggle some bits.”

Despite her fatigue, the Queen made time to attend the reception at the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, just a stone’s throw from Clarence House, where she hailed the strides made by the charity over the last five decades. Making some impromptu remarks before cutting a cake, she said: “If you think of what’s happening now compared to what was happening 50 years ago, you must all be incredibly proud.

“I think so many people hadn’t realised what domestic abuse was, especially then. It’s terrible that after 50 years, it still hasn’t been eradicated, but we are making progress.” The Queen told one guest: “I can’t support a charity just for the sake of it, I have to feel it.”

She told another that she did not think her ITV documentary would have been made as recently as ten years ago. Since the broadcast, Camilla said she had been inundated with letters, which had strengthened her resolve that the scourge of abuse would one day come to an end. “We’ll get there,” she said. “It will just take time.”

Many attendees congratulated the Queen on the success of her recent ITV documentary ( 
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Women’s Aid ambassador Katie Piper, who survived an acid attack, said domestic violence was one of the most isolating and dangerous forms of abuse because it so often occurred behind closed doors, where silence could make it invisible.

She added: “Silence is exactly what organisations like Women’s Aid have worked so hard to shatter over the past 50 years. They’ve been the ones to say ‘you are not alone, you are not to blame’, and by doing that, they’ve created a sisterhood.

“It’s not just about offering a place of refuge, but it’s also about empowering women. Women’s Aid has been at the forefront of that, fighting for women’s rights, ensuring every woman who seeks help is not just given a safe place to stay, but also access to legal support, counselling and a path to independence.”

Women’s Aid ambassador Katie Piper and the Queen ( 
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POOL/AFP via Getty Images)Nikki Bradley, head of services at Women’s Aid, said domestic violence was a public emergency. She added: “As a woman, you are over three times more likely to be killed by a partner than not wearing a seatbelt, but where are the public safety campaigns? Despite the urgency and severity of the threat facing our women and children, it is not being treated as a priority.”

Among the guests was broadcaster Kelle Bryan, who appears on Loose Women and is also a survivor of domestic abuse. “The documentary meant the world to us,” she said. “To see somebody of her ilk shine a light on something so dreadful.” Miss Liveing revealed she had met the Queen before the state visit to Australia and Samoa and that she had been worried about the heat. She said: “I asked how it was and she laughed and said: ‘It was very hot and humid.’”

Women’s Aid was founded in 1974, bringing together nearly 40 independent refuge services and creating a national network that allowed women and children in abusive situations to find a place of safety.

On Friday, 180 organisations provide nearly 300 services. Meanwhile, Prince Harry’s wife Meghan looked glamorous at a gala to honour the couple’s Hollywood pal Tyler Perry in Beverly Hills, California.

The Princess of Wales’ return to public duties continues on Friday as with an annual carol service at Westminster Abbey – Kate is staging the event attended by 1,600 people

The Princess of Wales’ annual carol service will feature a bespoke illustration celebrating themes of love and kindness after a difficult year.

Kate, who is recovering from cancer after what the Prince of Wales described as a “brutal” year, will be staging her televised Together At Christmas service at Westminster Abbey on Friday. The event, which will be attended by 1,600 people – including members of the royal family, is a key milestone in her gradual return to public duties after finishing chemotherapy treatment in the summer.

An illustration by British artist Charlie Mackesy – which embodies the service’s themes of kindness, love and empathy – will be featured on the Order of Service. The image depicts a snowy scene with a group of people walking arm in arm towards Westminster Abbey, accompanied by the words “How did I help? You were by my side, which was everything.”

The Prince of Wales, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, the Princess of Wales and the Reverend David Stanton during the Royal Carols in 2023 ( 
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PA)
Mackesy is known for his bestselling book The Boy, The Mole, The Fox And The Horse – which was published in 2019 and celebrates themes of kindness and friendship. He said: “Love, empathy and kindness are important messages for us all. As the theme of The Princess of Wales’ Carol Service this year, it was very special to have been asked to create the illustration for the Order of Service. I hope it reminds us of the beauty of being there for each other at Christmas.”

Alongside the Order of Service, each guest will receive a special letter from the princess thanking them for all they have done to provide comfort and hope to those in need, telling them “Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times”.

Each guest will receive a special letter from Kate ( 
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REX/Shutterstock)
During the past year, the princess has returned to public duties after being treated for cancer, while the King is still under the care of cancer specialists, and the service aims to provide a moment of reflection about the importance of loved ones, especially during difficult times. Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is terminally ill with prostate cancer, will light a candle; as will Lindsey Burrow, the wife of former rugby league star Rob Burrow – who died in June following a much-publicised battle with motor neurone disease

Readings, linked to the theme of love and empathy, will be made by the Prince of Wales and a host of stars including actors Richard E Grant, Downton Abbey actor Michelle Dockery, Sophie Okonedo -, nominated for an Oscar for her role in the film Hotel Rwanda, and Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty. Among the invited guests will be those who have supported others, either on a personal level with friends and family, or through their work or volunteering.

There will be readings from the Prince of Wales ( 
Image:
PA)Names have been nominated by charities associated with the royal family, and by Lord Lieutenants, the King’s representatives in counties across the UK. The Middleton family, who are said to have been a great source of support to Kate during her illness, usually attend – and last year Kate and William brought along Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

It will be the fourth time Kate has staged her Together At Christmas carol service, which is supported by The Royal Foundation. The festive event will be broadcast as part of the Royal Carols: Together At Christmas programme, airing on ITV1 and ITVX at 7:30pm on Christmas Eve.

The Princess of Wales will host her annual Christmas carol concert this year which will reflect on “how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives”.

Kate, 42, is recovering from cancer after what the Prince of Wales described as a “brutal” year. It will be one of the highest profile appearances she’s done in recent months, since revealing in an intimate video she was recovering from cancer.

Despite her health struggles, she was determined the annual televised festive event at Westminster Abbey would go ahead on December 6, to be broadcast on Christmas Eve.

It will be the fourth time the Princess has hosted the Together At Christmas Service, which has become a popular highlight of the royal calendar

 

Kate Middleton’s Christmas carol concert WILL return this year with a very special theme

Kate has had a ‘brutal’ year (file) ( 
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Getty Images)

During the first concert in a huge top secret surprise, she played the piano alongside Tom Walker and last year it was the first time Prince Louis joined his older siblings at the event.

It is one of the few engagements chosen for her gradual return to public duties after finishing chemotherapy treatment in the summer.

Kensington Palace said Kate particularly wanted the service’s theme to celebrate those supporting others in need, with a focus on the importance of love and empathy.

Kensington Palace said: “This year’s service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.

“The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities.”

The Palace added: “This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.

All three of Kate and William’s children were in attendance last year for the first time (file) (Image:
Getty Images)
“This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.”

 

In recent days, as she carried out royal engagements with her family, this message of “love and empathy” was plain to see, as the royal family supported each other.

At the Royal British Legion’s Festival of Remembrance, Prince William, put a comforting arm around his beaming wife as they arrived and sat chatting after they took their seats.

While The King, whose wife was home with a chest infection but is now ‘on the mend,’, was joined by his sister Princess Anne throughout the Royal Albert hall event.

The next day on Remembrance Sunday, Kate, stood alongside Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, to watch King Charles and Prince William lay a wreath at the Cenotaph. Sophie also put a protective arm around the younger mum-of-two.

Kate’s Together At Christmas carol service, which is supported by The Royal Foundation, will be filmed and broadcast as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX.

Members of the royal family will gather with the princess as some 1,600 people fill the abbey in London to see musical performances by stars including Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter.

Among the invited guests will be those who have supported others, either on a personal level with friends and family, or through their work or volunteering.