Princess Diana’s casual wardrobe included a sweater collection like no other royal, ranging from belted turtlenecks to comfortable cardigans

By
Stephanie Petit

Published on October 19, 2020 04:10PM EDT

Princess Diana. Photo: Getty

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Princess Diana. Princess Diana Archive/Getty

Princess Diana’s black sheep sweater, which she wore to two polo matches in the 1980s, sent a clear message of how she felt as part of the royal family. (And now the sweater is making a comeback for the new generation!)

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Before Diana married Prince Charles, sweaters (like this purple sweater vest) were a part of her wardrobe as a kindergarten assistant.

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Ahead of their royal wedding, Princess Diana posed for a photo with Prince Charles at Balmoral wearing a pink patterned pullover with trousers and boots.

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Princess Diana cozied up in fun sweaters, like this jumper depicting a koala, while pregnant.

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The royal mom put her own spin on a white turtleneck sweater by cinching it at the waist.

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The royal wrapped up in a white cardigan sans buttons over a pink dress for a 1984 polo match.

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Princess Diana had the perfect practical accessory at a polo game in 1985, casually tying a red sweater (which complemented her floral pants and matched her shoes) over her shoulders.

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During a school run for son Prince William, Diana opted for a blue patterned pullover that she cinched at the waist with a wide belt.

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Princess Diana and Prince William. Getty

Sweaters were a key piece of Diana’s mom wardrobe, like this red cardigan she wore while doing a puzzle at home with William.

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For some outdoor play time with a young Prince Harry, Diana wore a pink knit over a white shirt and gingham pants.

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Diana with William and Harry. Getty

Princess Diana’s polo sweater was the perfect cover-up for a plane ride with her two sons.

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For a family portrait (including a cute pup!), Diana coordinated her blue skirt with an oversized cardigan.

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For Prince Harry’s first day of school, she wore a red skirt and coordinating knit.

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Diana chose a navy cardigan with horizontal white stripes for a school run in 1989.

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Prince William, Princess Diana and Prince Harry. Getty

Princess Diana had a laugh with sons William and Harry during a ski holiday, riding in a sleigh wearing a pink V-neck sweater over a white turtleneck.

Proud David Beckham gave a reassuring hand to his wife Victoria as they joined the royals at King’s glittering state banquet for Qatar on Tuesday night.

The former footballer, 49, attended the event with his fashion designer wife, 50, who looked slightly nervous at one point while walking before David reassuringly took her hand.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are hosting a lavish reception for the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher, who are in the country for a two-day state visit.

It is understood that former England star David was invited because of his role as an ambassador for the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

He was seated next to Naseer Al-Khelaifi, a Qatari businessman and President of French football club PSG – where Beckham ended his high-profile career – ensuring the two men had much to talk about.

At the event Victoria looked stunning in a figure-hugging black dress no doubt from her own fashion brand.

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Proud David Beckham gave a reassuring hand to his wife Victoria as they joined the royals at King’s glittering state banquet for Qatar on Tuesday night

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The former footballer, 49, attended the event with his fashion designer wife, 50, who looked slightly nervous at one point while walking before David reassuringly took her hand

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King Charles and Queen Camilla are hosting a lavish reception for the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher, who are in the country for a two-day state visit

She wore her brunette tresses slicked back and carried a small gold bag to accessorise the look.

Meanwhile David cut a dapper figure in a black jacket and trousers, crisp white shirt and bow tie.

Perhaps mischievously on his right at the banquet was new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, also attending her first State Banquet.

Beckham, it should be noted, also played right wing.

Former Spice Girl Victoria – sealing her stratospheric rise from pop stardom to the seat of power – was sat even closer to the ‘top table’ than her husband on the right hand side of the horse shoe-shaped dining table.

She had The Lord Levy on her left – appropriately not only a peer but a former CEO of a large group of independent music companies – and Lord Darzi, knighted for his services to medicine and surgery, on her right.

The seating plan is organised by Buckingham Palace’s Master of the Household’s Department in conjunction with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, who fund the State Visit.

And it will surely add only fuel to the fire of speculation that Beckham will be knighted in the near future.

The banquet was the dazzling culmination of a day of pomp and pageantry, honouring the Emir and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher – who landed at London’s Stansted airport yesterday.

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At the event Victoria looked stunning in a figure-hugging black dress no doubt from her own fashion brand

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It is understood that former England star David was invited because of his role as an ambassador for the 2022 Qatar World Cup

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Meanwhile David cut a dapper figure in a black jacket and trousers, crisp white shirt and bow tie

The palace ballroom was decorated with a riot of seasonal flowers and foliage in red, reflecting the Qatari flag, arranged in silver-gilt centrepieces taken from the Grand Service from Windsor Home Park and the Orchard Garden at the glasshouses in Windsor.

The flowers are donated the next day to hospices, care home and shelters through Floral Angels, a charity of which Queen Camilla is patron.

Other senior royals present included Prince Anne, who was seated on the top table with the King, Queen and Prince of Wales, as well as the Qatari dignitaries.

The Duke and Duchesses of Edinburgh and Gloucester were also present.

The banquet menu was halal in respect of many of the guests present and while alcohol was served for those to wanted it, a ‘mocktail’ was also devised for the occasion.

Victoria Beckham showcases new partywear collection at event

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Former Spice Girl Victoria – sealing her stratospheric rise from pop stardom to the seat of power – was sat even closer to the ‘top table’ than her husband

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King Charles III and Queen Camilla with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and The Princess Royal

The three-course menu included a tartlet of Cornish Lobster and Quails Eggs to start; Supreme of Windsor Pheasant wrapped in Savoy cabbage, roasted celeriac purée, gratinated potatoes with a soft creamy cheese from Suffolk, Truffle sauce and winter vegetables; with an Iced Bombe with Organic Samoan Vanilla Ice cream and Balmoral Plum Sorbet for desert.

In honour of the occasion, a palace ‘page of the presence’ – who is studying for a masters in wine but is also a part time mixologist – devised a special alcohol-free tipple for the occasion – dubbed a ‘Royal Mirage’ made from smoked pomegranate and ginger with a black lime garnish.

Ahead of the banquet,  King Charles and Queen Camilla joined the Emir of Qatar and his wife for a group photograph on the steps of Buckingham Palace ahead of a lavish state banquet in honour of the visiting royals.

David Beckham stole the show at Buckingham Palace last night as he attended his first-ever state banquet alongside his wife Victoria.

The Beckhams, whose invite was kept secret until the event begun, joined King Charles, Queen Camilla and the Prince of Wales for the glittering event held for the Emir of Qatar, his wife and their delegation.

The former England captain, 49, looked at home at Buckingham Palace and calmly gave his fashion designer wife, 50, a reassuring hand as she appeared nervy walking through the East Gallery surrounded by royals and dignitaries.

It is understood that Beckham was invited to the lavish dinner because of his role as an ambassador for the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

There was a touching moment where the beaming ex-footballer confidently strode through the galleries of Buckingham Palace and lent his wife a supportive hand as she appeared to call on him for assistance.

While Beckham last night assumed the role as his wife’s knight in shining armour, his invitation to the palace once again raises questions over whether he has smoothed his path to a knighthood.

Beckham has attended several royal events in the past, including his investiture with an OBE in 2017 and the Queen’s Young Leader event in 2018, but this was his first-ever state banquet.

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Victoria and David Beckham were among last night’s guests at the glittering state banquet at Buckingham Palace in honour of the visiting Qatari royals

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Beckham’s appearance at the state banquet has fuelled speculation that he will soon be knighted. He was awarded an OBE in 2003 (left), while Victoria was awarded the same honour in 2017 (right)

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King Charles and Queen Camilla joined the Emir of Qatar and his wife for a group photograph on the steps of Buckingham Palace ahead of a lavish state banquet on Tuesday

In June, the former Manchester United winger also became an ambassador for The King’s Foundation – a role he said he was ‘honoured’ to take on.

This year, Beckham has held a meeting with the King about their shared passion of beekeeping and helped Prince William raise funds for the London Air Ambulance.

During a short speech at the King’s Foundation awards ceremony in June, Sir Rod Stewart teased Beckham that his knighthood would be ‘coming soon’ after the singer received his own in 2016.

And social media users have also suggested it is time that Beckham, who earned 115 caps for his country and helped secure the London 2012 Olympics, is recognised appropriately.

Sharing a photo of the Beckhams last night, one user said: ‘Yay we finally have a proper picture of David and Victoria Beckham at the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace.

‘I really hope he gets Knighted as there are some who have a Knighthood who shouldn’t have it and I can’t wait to call Victoria, Lady B.’

Another wrote: ‘Just look at Beckham’s “I can’t believe I’m here” smile as he and Victoria join the Royal Family for the State Banquet tonight at Buckingham Palace.

‘Good for them. Forget the Knighthood, just give him a Dukedom. The Duke and Duchess of Leytonstone should cover it.’

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Former England captain Beckham confidently led his wife through the East Gallery at Buckingham Palace

Fans of David Beckham were last night calling for him to receive a knighthood

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King Charles and the Emir of Qatar led the royal procession, with Queen Camilla and the Emir’s wife Sheikha Jawaher right behind

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Prince William, who can be seen walking behind Queen Camilla (in red), was not joined by his wife Kate

 And a third posted: ‘David Beckham is so getting a knighthood… posh Spice, Victoria is gonna be a proper posh spice soon.’

Beckham is yet to join a finite list of his fellow sports stars to receive such an honour, including the likes of the late Sir Bobby Charlton and former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The ex-footballer was awarded an OBE for his services to football in 2003.

His seemingly close relationship with the royals comes 11 years after his furious 2013 email – which he claims was faked where he allegedly called the Honours Committee a ‘bunch of c****’, adding: ‘Who decides the honours? It’s a disgrace.’

By 2013 Beckham’s playing career was over and he expected a fitting honour. That November, one newspaper even published a front-page story under the headline ‘Arise Sir David’, suggesting it was a certainty.

He took exception to singer Katherine Jenkins getting an honour, asking: ‘Katherine Jenkins OBE for what? Singing at the rugby and going to see the troops. F****** joke. All forgotten now?’

The series of emails was released by Football Leaks, the sporting equivalent of WikiLeaks, via European media.

They were dismissed by a Beckham spokesman who said: ‘This story is based on outdated material and taken out of context from hacked and doctored private emails from a third party server and gives a deliberately inaccurate picture.’

Beckham seated next to Naseer Al-Khelaifi, a Qatari businessman and President of French football club PSG – where Beckham ended his high-profile career – ensuring the two men had much to talk about.

Perhaps mischievously on his right was new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, also attending her first State Banquet.

Beckham is said to have been invited because of his role as ambassador at the Qatar World Cup – something he was heavily criticised for taking on amid questions over the country’s ban on same-sex relationships and alleged treatment of migrant workers.

Former Spice Girl Victoria – sealing her stratospheric rise from pop stardom to the seat of power – was sat even closer to the ‘top table’ than her husband on the right hand side of the horse shoe-shaped dining table.

She had The Lord Levy on her left – appropriately not only a peer but a former CEO of a large group of independent music companies – and Lord Darzi, knighted for his services to medicine and surgery, on her right.

The seating plan is organised by Buckingham Palace’s Master of the Household’s Department in conjunction with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, who fund the State Visit.

And it will surely add only fuel to the fire of speculation that David Beckham will be knighted in the near future.

The banquet was the dazzling culmination of a day of pomp and pageantry, honouring the Emir and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher – who landed at London’s Stansted airport yesterday.

The palace ballroom was decorated with a riot of seasonal flowers and foliage in red, reflecting the Qatari flag, arranged in silver-gilt centrepieces taken from the Grand Service from Windsor Home Park and the Orchard Garden at the glasshouses in Windsor.

The flowers are donated the next day to hospices, care home and shelters through Floral Angels, a charity of which Queen Camilla is patron.

Other senior royals present included Prince Anne, who was seated on the top table with the King, Queen and Prince of Wales, as well as the Qatari dignitaries.

The Duke and Duchesses of Edinburgh and Gloucester were also present.

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It is understood that former England star was invited because of his role as an ambassador for the 2022 Qatar World Cup

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in conversation with Qatar’s Minister for Education and Higher Education, Ms Lolwah bint Rashid Al-Khater

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The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, accompanied Qatar’s Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi

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Guests during the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace, London

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The Viscountess Hood accompanied the Prince of Wales as they made their way along the East Gallery to attend the state banquet for the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Buckingham Palace

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Queen Camilla with the Emir of Qatar’s wife Sheikha Jawaher, followed by Prince William, as the royal procession headed towards the ballroom

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Queenm Camilla wore a red velvet dress by Fiona Clare

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Cheers! The Emir of Qatar and King Charles raised their glasses in a toast

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The King captured in conversation with his Qatari counterpart

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In his speech, Charles, 76, welcomed the Emir and his wife on their first state visit to the UK

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The Emir also addressed the gathering at Buckingham Palace after Charles celebrated the ‘renewal of our enduring friendship’ in his speech

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King Charles, seated with Queen Camilla (right), the Emir of Qatar (centre left) and the Princess Royal (left)

Qatar’s Emir calls for peace during Westminster visit in London

Addressing the gathering, King Charles paid tribute to the ‘unique, shared history’ of Britain and Qatar, which stretches back over 160 years.

He said: ‘The United Kingdom is proud to be Qatar’s oldest friend in the Western world. We have a special bond founded on mutual respect which has stood the test of time.

‘Indeed, Qatar’s role in navigating the challenges of recent years has been invaluable – from supporting evacuations from Afghanistan, to helping to keep the world moving in some of the darkest days of the pandemic.

‘Your humanity, vision and leadership matter more than I can possibly say.’

He added: ‘Your Highnesses’ visit comes at another moment of great global change.

‘We are living through significant turbulence, the climate emergency, and the white heat of a scientific and technological revolution. Just as our parents served and worked so hard to confront the challenges of their ages, so too must we.

‘And at such times of uncertainty and upheaval, old friendships assume even greater importance.

‘If I may, I would particularly like to express the United Kingdom’s deepest gratitude for your tireless mediation efforts over the past year in pursuit of peace, in the face of unbearable heartache and suffering.

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The reception was preceeded with a ceremonial welcome for the Emir at Horse Guard’s Parade

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King Charles paid tribute to the ‘unique, shared history’ of Britain and Qatar

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From left to right: The Princess Royal, the Emir of Qatar, King Charles, and Queen Camilla

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The royals photographed toasting to the UK and Qatar’s long-standing friendship during the banquet held at Buckingham Palace

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The Princess Royal photographed during a lighthearted moment with the Emir, as King Charles listened in

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The Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani photographed delivering his speech

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The Viscountess Hood and The Prince of Wales appeared deep in conversation

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Senior Qatari diplomats have told the Mail that they are ‘deeply honoured’ the King has chosen their country as the first Middle Eastern state to be invited for a full state visit to the UK since Charles’ accession. Pictured: The Emir speaking at the reception in his honour

‘In these most desperate of circumstances, Qatar’s continued toil, perseverance and diplomatic efforts are, quite simply, beyond compare.’

The banquet menu was halal in respect of many of the guests present and while alcohol was served for those to wanted it, a ‘mocktail’ was also devised for the occasion.

The three-course menu included a tartlet of Cornish Lobster and Quails Eggs to start; Supreme of Windsor Pheasant wrapped in Savoy cabbage, roasted celeriac purée, gratinated potatoes with a soft creamy cheese from Suffolk, Truffle sauce and winter vegetables; with an Iced Bombe with Organic Samoan Vanilla Ice cream and Balmoral Plum Sorbet for desert.

In honour of the occasion, a palace ‘page of the presence’ – who is studying for a masters in wine but is also a part time mixologist – devised a special alcohol-free tipple for the occasion – dubbed a ‘Royal Mirage’ made from smoked pomegranate and ginger with a black lime garnish.

Ahead of the banquet,  King Charles and Queen Camilla joined the Emir of Qatar and his wife for a group photograph on the steps of Buckingham Palace ahead of a lavish state banquet in honour of the visiting royals.

Camilla, 77, paid tribute to the Queen Elizabeth II as she paired her red velvet evening dress by Fiona Clare with, unusually, the diamond kokoshnik tiara belonging to the late monarch.

She was wearing diamond earrings are from her private collection, while her necklace, also belonged to Queen Elizabeth.

She also sported a ruby and diamond bracelet and the family orders of both Queen Elizabeth and King Charles.

A video shared on the Royal Family‘s official X account earlier in the day showed Charles and Camilla – who was forced to scale back her appearances during the state visit due to the ‘lingering’ effects of a ‘nasty’ chest infection – inspecting the opulent arrangements before the arrival of their guests.

The first day of the Qatar state visit also marked one of Kate’s most high-profile public appearance since starting her cancer treatment.

Kate joined Prince William as the royal couple greeted Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher, on behalf of King Charles III in London.

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The Princess Royal and H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani

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H.E. Ms Lolwah bint Rashid Al-Khater and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer were among the high-profile attendees at tonight’s reception

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The leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch seen arriving for her first state banquet

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Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey smiling as he walked towards the East Gallery for the banquet

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King Charles joined the Emir of Qatar in raising a glass at the state banquet. While alcohol was served for those to wanted it, a ‘mocktail’ was also devised for the occasion in respect of many of the guests’ present

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Camilla, 77, paid tribute to the Queen Elizabeth II as she paired her red velvet evening dress by Fiona Clare with, unusually, the diamond kokoshnik tiara belonging to the late monarch

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The palace ballroom was decorated with a riot of seasonal flowers and foliage in red, reflecting the Qatari flag, arranged in silver-gilt centrepieces taken from the Grand Service from Windsor Home Park and the Orchard Garden at the glasshouses in Windsor

She then travelled from the Emir’s private residence to the ceremonial welcome on Horse Guards Parade. The women travelled in one chauffeur-driven car while the men travelled in another and the waiting King warmly greeted his guests on a dais.

The Princess wore a coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a hat by Sahar Millinery, with a pearl necklace that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Kate is carrying out even more royal duties than previously planned at the state visit in London amid what is being seen as a ‘positive sign’ in royal circles.

Meanwhile Queen Camilla has been forced to scale back her involvement due to ill health, and travelled straight to the palace – missing the ceremonial welcome.

Camilla’s car was driven around the quadrangle to the Grand Entrance, and she smiled as she stepped from the vehicle and made her way into the palace.

Around the same time, at Horse Guards Parade, Charles welcomed the Qataris for a ceremony of pomp and pageantry.

The King was received at the Royal Pavilion by Sir Kenneth Olisa, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London.

The Silver Stick in Waiting, Brigadier Mark Berry, and the Field Officer in Brigade Waiting, Colonel Guy Stone, were also present.

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Foreign secretary David Lammy and his wife Nicola Green were also present

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Lady Victoria Starmer, the wife of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, looked elegant in a black velvet gown

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The First Lady appeared in high spirits as she joined MPs, dignitaries, and members of the royal family for the state banquet

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Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, with his wife Cheryl Schonhardt-Bailey

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Also present at the glitzy event was Energy Secretary Ed Miliband (left)

Looking relaxed, the King spoke to guests on the royal dais including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

A guard of honour was formed by the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards stood waiting in two ranks to be inspected by the Qataris.

The 76-year-old monarch then made a number of presentations before inviting the Emir to inspect the Guard of Honour as the Qatari national anthem was played.

As they got out of their cars, William affectionately placed his hand on his wife’s back while they stood on the dais.

Kate then turned to the King and offered him a deep curtsy before the five greeted officials in the line up.

More than 900 soldiers, including nearly 200 Army musicians and 100 members of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery turned out at Horse Guards in honour of the guests.

For this State Visit the format has been adjusted slightly to allow The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery to play a more visible role, not least because the Emir adores his horses and passed out of Sandhurst as a young man.

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The Duchess of Edinburgh and H.E. Mr. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi

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Dame Amelia Fawcett and The Duke of Edinburgh joined the royal procession at Buckingham Palace

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H.E. Ms Maryam bint Ali Al Misnad and the Duke of Gloucester were among the dignitaries present a Buckingham Palace on Tuesday

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The Duchess of Gloucester and H.E. Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani

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Lady Thomas of Cwmgiedd and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, Princess Anne’s husband, photographed at the reception

A Guard of Honour was formed by the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards with The King’s Colour, accompanied by the Band of the Regiment.

After the King invited a decidedly delighted-looking Emir to inspect the Guard of Honour, William and Catherine remained on the stage chatting animatedly to the Sheikha.

The royal party then departed Horse Guards in a spectacular carriage procession, accompanied by a Sovereign’s Escort of the Household Cavalry.

Later at Buckingham Palace, the King arrived at the Grand Entrance in the Irish State Coach with his visitors to the sound of the Qatar and British national anthems.

Waiting inside in the warm in the Grand Hall was the Queen.

In the second carriage, the Australian State Coach, were the Prince and Princess of Wales with the Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

Sheikh Mohammed stepped from the carriage first, followed by William, with both turning to wait for Kate.

The princess stepped carefully from the state coach in her knee-high high heeled boots.

The Waleses walked side by side chatting to one another, with Kate carrying a small matching burgundy handbag and a pair of gloves, as they made their way up the red carpeted steps of the Grand Entrance.

More pomp and pageantry awaited as they arrived at the Palace to a second Guard of Honour and a rendition of both the British and Qatari national anthem.

Camilla was waiting inside to greet her guests but did not step outside because of her illnesses.

The queen was forced to recuse herself from the ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade on doctor’s advice because she is still suffering from the ‘lingering’ side-effects of a ‘nasty viral chest infection’.

The 77-year-old royal, who fell ill a month ago, is said to be feeling particularly ‘fatigued’ – but a palace spokesperson confirmed she will attend the other elements of the state visit as planned.

The state visit is considered one of the highlights of the royal calendar and a show of royal ‘soft diplomacy’ in action.

Senior Qatari diplomats have told the Mail that they are ‘deeply honoured’ the King has chosen their country as the first Middle Eastern state to be invited for a full state visit to the UK since Charles’ accession.

The country enjoys a good relationship with the UK diplomatically, with the Emir, 44, having studied in Britain – first at Sherborne and then Harrow – followed by a stint at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst.

There remains great admiration for the late Queen Elizabeth II, and Charles has met with the Emir on several occasions.

The two countries also have strong trade, cultural and military links, and Qatar is a major investor in the UK, not just through property and construction projects, but in science and technology.

However concerns have been raised about the authoritarian nature of the Qatari ruling family and human rights, particularly as regards migrant workers.

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) ( 
Image:
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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.

The Sussexes have come under fire in a German documentary which takes a closer look at the gulf between the couple’s ‘noble’ work and their luxury lifestyles

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been accused of ‘hypocrisy’ in a new documentary from Germany. The Lost Prince, by award-winning filmmaker Ulrike Grunewald, takes an inside look at the couple’s life in Montecito, California, following their departure from the Royal Family, and Harry’s future role within the monarchy.

One area of focus is the gulf between the couple’s ‘noble’ work and their luxury lifestyles. Meghan especially comes under fire for her decision to wear expensive designer clothing during high-profile visits to impoverished nations.

As the Mirror’s Russell Myers notes on the documentary: “If you’re going to places like Nigeria, like Colombia, which have huge socio-economic problems, some of the world’s poorest communities in these countries, and you’re turning up wearing tens of thousands of pounds worth of designer clothes – it really doesn’t send the right message.”

Meanwhile, Dai Davies, a former Head of Royal Protection and a Divisional Commander in the Metropolitan Police, accuses Harry of failing to mix much with ordinary people on what he describes as their ‘carefully orchestrated’ international trips. “In Colombia, although there are very rich people there, the vast majority, 85 per cent or 90 per cent, are very poor,” Dai said.

“And what I’ve noticed of these tours, he mixes with the upper classes. He doesn’t really, apart from carefree orchestrated areas where he mixes with so-called the ‘normal people’ – well they’re not.

“These are carefully orchestrated campaigns as far as I can see… I look quite dispassionately at the evidence and the evidence I’ve seen is, it’s all about Harry and Meghan. It’s very little to do with an actual alleged rationale for going there.”

Elsewhere in the documentary, Harry and Meghan are criticised for trading off their former royal roles by seeking to make money to support their lavish lifestyle. It’s also revealed that the couple allegedly spend just one hour a week working for their charity Archewell, while also noting that donations to the charity dropped from $13 million (£10.2m) in 2021 to just $2million (£1.5m) dollars in 2022.

Jack Royston, from the podcast The Royal Report, spoke about the couple’s desire to be ‘half in and half out’ of the Royal family – but the part-time return to royal life was dismissed by the late Queen. “If you have a situation where Harry and Meghan are earning huge amounts of money in Hollywood trading off their reputations, but then they’re also bolstering their reputations by working for the Queen – they’re able to present themselves on the world stage as being these working members of the royal family who are also available for a price,” he said.

“That is a huge compromise to demand off the monarchy. If they were to be perceived to be promoting their commercial projects while representing the Queen, then that’s also… starting to border on corruption there because they should never be using the monarchy as a platform.”

Royston added: “The particular way in which Harry and Meghan crashed out of the Royal Family, firing hand grenades at Harry’s relatives, caused their reputation to be significantly damaged. And that has had a major impact on their capacity to make the world a better place because a lot of people just aren’t listening to them at all.”

Another contributor to the documentary is former soldier Ben McBean who lost his left arm and had his right leg amputated above the knee after being seriously injured by a landmine blast in Afghanistan in 2008. Ben, who shared a flight home from Afghanistan with Harry, was scathing in his criticism of the Prince over his bombshell revelations about his family in his tell-all memoir Spare and in the couple’s Netflix show.

“I just thought, with him kind of whinging about his family and he was saying something about his brother pushing him over or something like that, I was just like, ‘Mate, just leave it out’,” he said. “You and your brother had a little fisticuffs…but family’s family, you know.”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s former close bond with David and Victoria Beckham has been thrust back into the spotlight after the celeb couple were invited to a state banquet at Buckingham Palace

Speculation has long been swirling about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s now seemingly frosty bond with David and Victoria Beckham.

And with the Beckhams being surprise guests as King Charles hosted a glittering state banquet during the Qatar state visit to the UK, one expert believes the move proves the showbiz couple’s friendship with the Sussexes is now over. Since rumours of a feud between the couples, David appears to have become even closer to Harry’s estranged royal relatives. In recent months, the ex-England football captain was named a King’s Foundation ambassador.

In photographs released to mark the announcement, David was pictured with the King on the doorstep of Highgrove, Charles’ Gloucestershire retreat, and shown trying out his carpentry skills with foundation students taking part in woodworking courses at the Snowdon School of Furniture. The pair also swapped beekeeping tips as both have hives.

David and Victoria at the state banquet for the Emir of Qatar at Buckingham Palace ( 
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Harry and Meghan are not believed to be as close to the Beckhams now ( 
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Meanwhile, just weeks ago, David also joined Harry’s estranged brother Prince William to unveil a brand new helicopter for the London Air Ambulance after a multi-million pound fundraising campaign.

And with the invitation to the state banquet, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams says it is a clear sign the Sussexes are no longer aligned with the Beckhams, which may have been caused by a ‘bizarre move’. He told MailOnline: “The Beckhams, then considered friends, attended the Sussexes’ wedding in 2018 along with Hollywood stars who were not, yet they were not invited to the wedding dinner which was a bizarre misstep.

“Yet Meghan, who had visited the Beckhams in California before her marriage, had worn clothes designed by Victoria to promote her label as far back as 2013 and Harry and David Beckham had been friendly before he met Meghan.

David with Prince William and Prince Harry in South Africa in 2010 ( 
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“We know the Sussexes did not appear at their son Brooklyn’s wedding. The likelihood is that the Sussexes, Meghan in particular, became jealous of a couple who are not only among the world’s genuine high achievers but also who are clearly strong supporters of the royal family, including William.”

At first, it seemed the Sussexes were on very friendly terms with the Beckhams and they were reportedly eager to make Meghan feel welcome in the UK. In fact, there were reports that Victoria had given Meghan access to her little black book of her favourite hairdressers and stylists in London.

But the first sign of tension came shortly after when reports about Victoria helping out Meghan were published – leaving the Sussexes upset. According to the Mail On Sunday, Harry confronted David with his suspicions in a phone call that left the ex-Manchester United star “furious”.

David has grown increasingly close to the King ( 
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Afterwards, the two couples seemed to put the ordeal behind them with David and Victoria at St George’s Chapel in Windsor to see Harry and Meghan get married in May 2018. Victoria wore a chic navy dress and hat while David looked smart in a morning suit. Several months later, the royal couple headed off on a tour of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, which coincided with the 2018 Invictus Games that were being held in Sydney. Harry and a pregnant Meghan appeared at the opening ceremony of the Games.

Harry is said to have asked David to be an ambassador for the Invictus Games – but things reportedly turned sour when the prince refused to see the former England football captain at the event in Sydney in 2018. It was claimed that the reason Harry was keeping his friend at arms’ length was Meghan – as she feared Victoria was leaking stories about her to the press.

Meanwhile, more recently, there have been signs that all has not been right between the Sussexes and the Beckhams. In 2022, when David and Victoria’s eldest son Brooklyn married actress Nicola Peltz in a lavish wedding in Florida, Harry and Meghan were nowhere to be seen.

Similarly, last summer when David welcomed football superstar Lionel Messi to his Inter Miami team, a star-studded crowd were in attendance for his debut. Among them included Kim Kardashian, LeBron James and Serena William, a known BFF of Meghan, but again the Sussexes weren’t there.

‘Sir David Beckham’, anyone? Speculation is rife that the former England captain could be up for a knighthood soon after growing close to King Charles III and the Prince of Wales

Intense speculation is mounting that former England football captain David Beckham will finally be knighted after growing close to the King in recent months.

The King could bestow the honour on the global sport and fashion icon as part of his New Year’s Honours list, in a testament to his charity work across the world. Beckham and his fashion designer wife Victoria were surprise guests at a glittering state banquet on Tuesday night in honour of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher.

Beckham, 49, was described in royal circles as “the perfect guest” for the state occasion, owing to his ambassador role for the 2022 Qatar World Cup when the competition broke ground by being held in the Middle East for the first time.

Posh Spice could soon be ‘Lady Beckham’ – posh indeed ( 
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David and Victoria Beckham make their way along the East Gallery to attend the state banquet for the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at Buckingham Palace, London ( 
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The ex-player, who was capped 115 times for England as well as captaining the team for six years, has in the past been widely tipped to have a promotion from his current OBE, after being named in the late Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to football in June 2003. But after hanging up his boots playing for some of the world’s most illustrious clubs including Manchester United, AC Milan and Real Madrid.

Beckham hit the headlines a decade later when he was exposed for sending a series of furious emails, in which he branded the Honors Committee which rejected him for a knighthood “unappreciative c***s”. The foul mouth tirade, coupled with allegations of tax avoidance when he played in Spain between 2003-2007, seemed to have torpedoed his chances of being made a Knight. As one of the most recognisable faces on the planet, Brand Beckham was further accused of mounting a campaign to get an honor from the late Queen Elizabeth II, which would give him the title ‘Sir’ and make his wife ‘Lady’ Victoria in the UK.

Becks has been widely tipped to have a promotion from his current OBE ( 
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Honours’ lists include awards for people who have made significant achievements in public life and committed themselves to serving and helping Britain. The New Year and birthday honours are awarded by the monarch, following recommendations by the Prime Minister or senior government ministers.

Members of the public can also recommend people for an award, which typically make up about a quarter of all recommendations. Honours’ lists include awards for people who have made significant achievements in public life and committed themselves to serving and helping Britain

The furious rants in emails to a business associate – which he later claims was faked – detailed his anger for not being elevated. Beckham also took exception to singer Katherine Jenkins getting an honour, asking: “Katherine Jenkins OBE for what? Singing at the rugby and going to see the troops. F****** joke.”

The Champions League winner was alleged to have insisted he didn’t “care about being knighted”, adding: “I expected nothing less. It’s a disgrace to be honest and if I was American I would of [sic] got something like this 10 years ago.”

The Prince of Wales with David Beckham in front of one of the new London Air Ambulance Charity helicopters, during a visit to RAF Northolt ( 
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PA)A close friend of Beckham exclusively told The Mirror in 2017: “He is very calm at the moment because he knows the great work that he has done for UNICEF. But he is just saddened that people would question all of that work. Genuinely, he wasn’t as vitriolic as that, but you do say some things in private and in the heat of the moment. To be honest, he does feel that he has given so much to his country. And sometimes you say things in private that anyone would say and you don’t really mean it.”

However, those close to the global football and fashion icon have given assurances that his previous tax woes have been long rectified, while others point to his constant work in the charity sector, working with UNICEF for nearly 20 years as a Goodwill Ambassador. In recent years, Beckham has enjoyed close links with the royals, attending the weddings of both the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex and this summer most notably became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation.

In June, the King turned to brand Beckham to help him rebuild the reputation of his main charitable foundation after a cash-for-honours scandal. Becks was announced in the new role after the two met for tea at the monarch’s Highgrove home in Gloucestershire.

A photo of Charles giving Beckham a personal tour of the grounds sits prominently on the superstar’s website under the philantropy section. Beckham said he was looking forward to exploring a newly discovered shared interest with the monarch in rural skills, nature and the British countryside as well as swapping beekeeping tips.

One source with knowledge of the system said: “It would appear now more than any time previously that David Beckham is in prime position for a Knighthood.”

Beckham has also grown ever close to Prince William, the patron and former president of the Football Association. The Prince of Wales joined forces with Becks in October to celebrate the purchase of two new helicopters for London’s air ambulance service. The duo were at RAF Northolt to mark the end of the three-year Up Against Time appeal that raised £16 million for the H135 vehicles, which operate from their base at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, east London.

The Prince, 42, and Beckham, 49, greeted each other like old friends, before hopping inside the cockpit. The Prince, patron of the London Air Ambulance charity, had personally asked Beckham to front an Omaze prize draw campaign, which contributed more than £4 million to the fund.

The Cabinet Office was approached for comment. Buckingham Palace said all honours were a matter for the Cabinet Office.

In a startling turn of events, the British intelligence agency MI6 has concluded that the children of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Archie and Lilibet, are fictitious. This bombshell revelation has sent shockwaves through the royal family and the world.

The highly classified investigation, codenamed Operation Phantom, has uncovered a web of deception that extends far beyond the glamorous facade the Sussexes have carefully cultivated. Sources within MI6 claim that there is no concrete evidence to support the existence of Archie and Lilibet. Birth certificates, hospital records, and even photographs have been subjected to rigorous forensic analysis, and all have been deemed fabricated.

The agency believes that the Sussexes have orchestrated an elaborate hoax to maintain their relevance in the public eye and secure lucrative business deals. The revelation casts a long shadow over the credibility of the Sussexes and raises serious questions about the couple’s character.

The Sussexes’ relentless pursuit of privacy while simultaneously exploiting their royal connections for personal gain has long been a subject of controversy. However, the alleged fabrication of their children is the ultimate betrayal of public trust.

Furthermore, MI6’s findings suggest that the Sussexes may have committed a serious crime. Creating false identities and disseminating misleading information can have far-reaching consequences, and the couple could face legal repercussions if the allegations are proven true.

As the world grapples with the implications of this astonishing revelation, the focus shifts to the Sussexes and their response. Will they deny the allegations outright, or will they attempt to explain the inexplicable? The coming days will undoubtedly be filled with drama and intrigue as this scandal unfolds.

One cannot help but wonder about the motivations behind such a brazen deception. Financial gain is undoubtedly a significant factor, as the Sussexes have secured lucrative deals with streaming giants and publishing houses – deals that hinge on their public image as a modern royal family. The existence of their children is a key component of this narrative, and the revelation that they may be fictitious casts doubt on the integrity of these deals.

The impact of this revelation on the royal family is immeasurable. The institution has already been rocked by the departure of Harry and Meghan, and this latest scandal is a fresh wound. The Queen and the remaining royals are likely to be devastated by the betrayal of their grandchildren.

The implications of this scandal extend far beyond the royal family, however. The public’s trust in the Sussexes has been shattered, and their ability to maintain their relevance and secure future deals is now in jeopardy. The revelation also raises questions about the role of the media and the public’s willingness to believe the carefully curated narratives presented by public figures.

As the investigation continues, the world waits with bated breath for the truth to emerge. Will the Sussexes finally be held accountable for their actions, or will they manage to spin this scandal in their favor? The fate of the royal family and the future of the Sussexes’ public image hang in the balance.

One thing is certain: this is a scandal that will reverberate through the ages, a cautionary tale of the dangers of deception and the consequences of betraying the public trust. The Phantom Grandchildren will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most shocking revelations in the annals of the royal family.

Although Christmas is often thought to be a time for family festivities, even Princess Diana wasn’t immune to feeling less than thrilled about spending the holiday period with her royal relatives

When it comes to celebrating Christmas, many of us often dread the annual family gathering associated with the season – and it appears, even the late Princess Diana was also far from fond of spending the festive period with her royal relatives.

According to royal biographer Andrew Morton, the late Princess of Wales “hated” spending Christmas at Sandringham every year – and even recalled how the Princess was even “mortified” upon discovering one tradition held by the family in particular.Morton, who wrote the bestseller Diana: Her True Story, claimed that Diana’s foray into the unusual world of royal festive traditions began during her first Christmas at Sandringham in 1981, five months after she famously tied the knot with her husband then-Prince Charles.

By the time Christmas Day itself arrived, the Princess was already pregnant with her first child Prince William, and despite suffering from severe morning sickness, Diana still took the time to “to buy her new family members thoughtful and expensive gifts,” Vanity Fair reported.

Princess Diana and members of the royal family leave St Mary Magdalene Church after attending the Christmas Day service on December 25, 1985 ( 
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However, despite her careful and meticulous planning to ensure heartfelt and personal gifts were selected, Diana soon found herself utterly “mortified” after discovering that this was not normal procedure for a royal Christmas – as the royal family preferred to give each other tongue-in-cheek ‘gag’ presents instead!

One example of the unusual tradition came when Princess Diana gifted her sister-in-law Princess Anne a beautiful cashmere sweater, and was in turn rewarded with a toilet roll holder in exchange!

“It was highly fraught,” Princess Diana told Morton. “I know I gave, but I can’t remember being a receiver. Isn’t that awful? I do all the presents, and Charles signs the cards. [It was] terrifying and so disappointing. No boisterous behaviour, lots of tension, silly behaviour, silly jokes that outsiders would find odd, but insiders understood.”

“I sure was [an outsider],” Diana added.

Despite the annual tradition which she attended for several years with her children, Princess Diana never enjoyed royal Christmases ( 
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Further corroboration of Diana’s dislike of Christmas with the royals also came from Diana’s long-time hairdresser Richard Dalton, who also claimed that “The princess just hated going to Sandringham for Christmas” in Kitty Kelly’s book The Royals.

“She told me it was freezing cold and dinner had to be over by 3 o’clock. ‘It’s 3 and time to watch me on TV,’ she’d say, imitating you-know-who. The royal family had to watch the Queen’s Christmas message on television. Diana said it was a command performance,” reports PEOPLE.

Things also became more and more fraught as Diana’s marriage to Charles became more strained as the years progressed. Eventually, the couple shared their last Christmas together at Sandringham in December 1991 before formally separating on Dec. 9, 1992.

In a further blow, following her separation, Diana was forced to spend her first Christmas away from her sons Prince William and Prince Harry as they continued to follow the usual royal tradition of gathering at Sandringham alongside the Queen and other senior royals to mark the occasion.

The Duke of Sussex was asked about stories in the media suggesting he and Meghan had undergone a professional separation during an appearance at The New York Times Dealbook Summit, in New York, on Wednesday night.

The appearance came as Meghan was helping Tyler Perry receive an honor at The Paley Center for Media’s fall gala in Beverly Hills.

Journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin told the prince: “Even as we were in the race coming up to this day I Googled news about you and there are people fascinated by everything you do and all the time
Left, Prince Harry speaks onstage during The New York Times Dealbook Summit 2024 at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City on December 4, 2024. Right, Meghan Markle is pictured in Beverly Hills, California…
Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for The New York Times and ETIENNE LAURENT/AFP via Getty Images
“They’re fascinated about, ‘Meghan is in California and you are here’ and there’s articles left and right about, ‘Why are you doing independent events? Why aren’t you doing them together?’”

“Because you invited me, you should have known, you should have known that was going to happen,” Harry joked.

” Because apparently we’ve bought or moved house maybe 10 or 12 times and we’ve apparently divorced maybe 10 or 12 times as well,” he said.

“So, it’s just like ‘what?’ So, it’s hard to keep up with but that’s why you just sort of ignore it.

“The people I feel most sorry about are the trolls who, their hopes are just built and built and built so its like ‘yes, yes, yes, yes, yes’ and then it doesn’t happen. So I feel sorry for them, genuinely I do, I mean that.

“So, yes, I have no doubt that everything I’ve spoken about today in the last 25 minutes will be spun or twisted somehow against me.”

Harry and Meghan Divorce Gossip

The first signs that Harry and Meghan were pursuing solo projects emerged in early 2023 in the months after the prince’s book Spare was published and their biopic was released.

The couple had reached the end of one phase of their professional journey paving the way for new projects and a new direction but U.S. public opinion had .

Against that backdrop, Meghan hired Hollywood talent agency WME, whose clients include Rihanna, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Matt Damon, to represent her.

The move signaled she was striking out on her own path and wanted a boost for her as an individual star, rather than promoting herself via her status as part of a couple.

That summer, the Sussexes went quiet, their Spotify deal having collapsed in June, and in the vacuum of information rumors swirled of a secret split, with some websites even citing an $80 million suit. Regalrumination.com as false.

Speculation died down after they attended the Invictus Games together in September 2023, appearing happy and tactile in each other’s company.

Meghan Markle and Tyler Perry are seen in Beverly Hills, California, on December 4, 2024. Meghan was helping Perry receive an honor at The Paley Center for Media’s fall gala in Beverly Hills.

Momodu Mansaray/WireImage
However, rumors returned in October 2024 after Harry undertook a round the world trip without Meghan, with stops in New York, London and southern Africa.

Articles focused on the idea of a professional split while headlines were written in the language of romantic separation with Harry said to want “space.”

“SEPARATE SUSSEXES: Meghan Markle and are living separate lives,” one headline read.

Another said: “‘Desperate’ Harry gets serious about repairing his image—and Meghan is not part of the project: ‘He wants space.’”

This week, Harry and Meghan alongside their annual Impact Report, which shone the spotlight on some of their joint appearances, including footage of them in Colombia in August.

On that tour they were seen grinning as they danced the salsa together and kissed in front of the cameras.

That footage did not stop speculation about their solo appearances a couple of months later and only time will tell if Harry’s latest intervention stops further rumors.

Harry told Sorkin on Wednesday: “I’ve had a lived experience since I was a kid. I’ve seen stories written about myself that aren’t exactly based on reality. I’ve seen stories about members of my family, friends, strangers, all sorts of people.

“And I think when you grow up within that environment, you do find yourself questioning the validity of the information but also what other people are thinking of that as well, and how dangerous it can be over the course of time.”

Williams Brown is chief royal correspondent for Regalrumination.com, based in London. You can find him on X, formerly , at and read his stories on Regalrumination.com‘s