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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary on Sunday, May 19, but one royal photographer recently revealed the harsh reality of trying to photograph the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on their big day.

“I was there I hated the day, it was a miserable day,” Arthur Edwards told an outlet. “I can tell you now it was the worst royal engagement I ever did, the worst royal wedding I ever did because Harry was determined to keep the newspapers away from it as much as possible.”

“Everything was done on long lenses. It was hopeless. And when they went past in the carriage, they turned away from me,” he continued.

Source: MEGAMeghan Markle gushed over her love story with Prince Harry during her wedding reception.

Over the years, the Duke of Sussex has been open about his relationship with the British media and sued various tabloids over accusations of phone hacking and unethical journalistic practices.

“I felt it was deliberate, with the British press, in many ways they were badly treated,” the professional shared. “Harry was angry at us about things said about Meghan. Some of the things were pretty harsh. Some were pretty unfair.”

“He was angry and I felt we were punished for that,” Edwards noted.

Source: MEGAPrince Harry and Meghan Markle have a contentious relationship with the British media.

Although the historic moment was challenging for the shutterbug, the duo shared an intimate moment from their reception dinner in their popular Netflix series Harry & Meghan.

“Let’s call this a modern fairytale. Once upon a time, there was a girl from L.A. Some people called her ‘an actress,’” Meghan told guests. “And there was a guy from London. Some people called him ‘a prince.’ All of those people didn’t fully get it. Because this is the love story of a boy and a girl who were meant to be together.”

Experts Explain Doria Ragland Uses Sign Language to Communicate with Prince Harry, as Meghan Markle is a “Traitor” and Untrusted

Have you ever been part of a conversation that seemed like a game of “telephone”? One person whispers a secret, and by the time it reaches the last player, it’s an entirely different story. Now, imagine this happening on a global scale, with millions watching every move. Welcome to the world of celebrity gossip, where facts can twist and turn faster than a soap opera plot.Today, we dive into a juicy tale that has captured the media’s imagination— the unconventional communication between Doria Ragland, Meghan Markle’s mother, and her son-in-law, Prince Harry. Rumors are swirling that Doria has resorted to using sign language to communicate with Harry, as Meghan has been labeled a “traitor” and is no longer trusted by her. But what’s the truth behind this story? Buckle up as we explore the layers of misunderstanding, family dynamics, and the need for secrecy.

 

Picture this: a sunny afternoon in Montecito, California. The sounds of laughter and conversation fill the air as members of the royal family adjust to their new lives outside Buckingham Palace’s traditions. Yet beneath the surface, tensions simmer. Meghan Markle, once celebrated as a breath of fresh air, has faced significant controversies, with some even branding her a “traitor” to royal standards. Could it be true that Doria, determined to forge her own path, has turned to sign language as a form of communication with Harry?

It might sound like a plot twist straight out of a movie, but let’s take a deeper look. Sign language isn’t just a means of communication; it’s a bridge that connects people from different backgrounds, conveying emotion, nuance, and sometimes even humor. Imagine Doria and Harry sharing a light-hearted moment, their hands dancing in the air, expressing thoughts words alone may not capture.

Why would Doria choose sign language, though? Is it to keep secrets for Meghan, or is it a practical choice in a world where every word is scrutinized? Perhaps it’s a way for Doria to foster a deeper bond with Harry, allowing them to share unfiltered thoughts without the fear of betrayal.

Trust, as we know, can be a slippery thing. Doria’s relationship with Meghan has been under intense scrutiny ever since the couple stepped back from royal duties. Some reports suggest that Meghan’s struggles with the royal family have strained her relationship with her mother. Could this be the reason Doria feels the need to communicate in a way that feels safer, more secure?

Imagine sitting down for a family dinner where every conversation feels like walking through a minefield. One wrong word, and suddenly you’re the subject of a tabloid headline. Perhaps Doria simply seeks a way to share her thoughts without the risk of misinterpretation.

Communication, in any relationship, is the lifeblood that sustains it—whether through words, gestures, or expressions. Doria’s possible use of sign language could signal a deep understanding of this principle. How often do we assume others understand us, only to later realize we were on completely different wavelengths? By using sign language, Doria may ensure her messages are crystal clear, with no room for miscommunication.

Now, let’s step back and examine the role of the media in this saga. The tabloids love a good story, especially when it involves royals and drama. Headlines like “Doria Uses Sign Language to Exclude Meghan” or “Secret Codes Between Harry and Doria” ignite curiosity and generate clickbait frenzy. But how much of this is true? The media thrives on sensationalism, leaving little room for the nuances of real-life relationships.

In this age of gossip, how can we separate fact from fiction? Doria, as Meghan’s mother, undoubtedly wants what’s best for her daughter, but what happens when your child is relentlessly criticized in the public eye? Perhaps Doria feels torn between protecting Meghan and supporting Harry. This may lead her to seek alternative forms of communication with Harry, enabling her to express her feelings without stoking the fire.

Non-verbal communication is an art in itself—encompassing everything from body language to facial expressions. When words fail, gestures speak volumes. Doria’s potential use of sign language may not only strengthen her bond with Harry but also serve as a powerful tool to navigate the complex family dynamics. A simple hand gesture can convey support, concern, or humor in a world where words can be weaponized. Doria may find solace in a language that transcends the chaos surrounding them.

Doria’s background as a social worker has likely shaped her perspective on communication. Growing up in a diverse environment, she may understand the importance of adaptability when expressing oneself. Could this cultural influence play a part in her choice to use sign language with Harry? Non-verbal communication is a key component of many cultures, and Doria might be blending her own cultural experiences with royal traditions to create a unique communication style.

 

The underwhelming response to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s latest business venture has the potential to jeopardize their $100 million deal with Netflix, according to a top brand expert.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s “Polo” docuseries, released on the streaming platform earlier this week, has been hit with a slew of negative reviews from critics in the days that followed.The duo, who both served as executive producers on the project, made minimal appearances in the docuseries, with the promotion of the project also underdelivering.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s latest business venture has the potential to jeopardize their $100 million deal with Netflix, according to a top brand expert. PA Images via Getty Images
Brand expert Nick Ede has now warned that the documentary could be the “nail in the coffin” for the pair’s lucrative Netflix partnership, which they signed in 2020.

“The new polo documentary hasn’t received good reviews, and this is another foray into producing from Meghan and Harry,” Ede told the Daily Mail.

“All eyes will be on whether the show rates and makes the very important Top 10. It could, like the Invictus documentary, start well due to the public’s fascination with the pair and with polo potentially.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s latest “Polo” docuseries has been hit with a slew of negative reviews from critics. Youtube/Netflix
Ede warned that the project was always going to “fare badly” as it went up against Netflix’s latest releases like “Black Doves” and a variety of new Christmas films.

“This could potentially be a nail in the coffin for their deal with the streaming giant who now use algorithms to make sure their programming is perfect for their subscribers,” he added.

The Post has reached out to Netflix and reps for the Sussexes for comment.
The duo, who both served as executive producers on the project, made minimal appearances in the docuseries. Netflix

It comes after the “Suits” alum, 43, finished filming her upcoming show for Netflix in July.

While details about her new project remain scarce, the series will reportedly be centered around cooking and wellness.

It will be produced by Sony Pictures Television, as well as Markle herself, and will likely collaborate with her impending lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which has yet to be launched.

Both the polo docuseries and the upcoming cooking show fall under the deal Harry and Markle signed with Netflix under their Archewell Productions company.

A brand expert has warned that the documentary could be the “nail in the coffin” for the pair’s lucrative Netflix partnership. Colombian Vice President’s Office via Getty Images

In February, Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria revealed the types of projects the duo are working on under their lucrative deal with the platform.

Not a Mom? Meghan Markle Pale-Faced as Trevor Engelson Exposes Shocking Allegations

Could it be true? Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, finds herself at the center of yet another controversy as her ex-husband, Trevor Engelson, makes explosive claims about her children. According to Engelson, Meghan allegedly used a surrogate to welcome her daughter, Lilibet, and Archie may not even be Prince Harry’s biological son.

This bombshell revelation has sent shockwaves through royal watchers and the public alike. If true, these allegations could have profound implications for the British monarchy, Meghan’s relationship with Harry, and the legacy they’ve worked so hard to create.Before diving into these shocking allegations, let’s take a step back. Trevor Engelson isn’t just a random name. He’s Meghan Markle’s first husband, a Hollywood producer who was by her side during her rise from struggling actress to global celebrity.

 

His unique perspective offers rare insight into Meghan’s ambitions, personality, and perhaps her secrets. For those questioning his motives, it’s worth asking: could his proximity to Meghan mean he knows more about her private life than the public ever will?

Surrogacy is no longer shocking in today’s world, but in royal circles, it’s a potential scandal. Engelson claims that Meghan and Harry’s second child, Lilibet, was born via a surrogate, a fact allegedly concealed from the public and possibly even the royal family.

Why would this matter? For the British monarchy, direct biological lineage is paramount. If these claims are true, it could create questions about Lilibet’s place in the line of succession. Could she lose her royal title? Could centuries-old traditions be thrown into chaos?

If Meghan and Harry did choose surrogacy, why hide it? Was it to avoid backlash, or is there a deeper, more complex reason?

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping part of Engelson’s claims centers on Archie Harrison. He alleges that Archie may not be Prince Harry’s biological son.

The gravity of this claim cannot be overstated. Engelson suggests “irregularities” in timelines and behaviors during Meghan’s pregnancy, raising questions about the legitimacy of Archie’s parentage.

If true, this revelation could explain Meghan and Harry’s abrupt departure from royal duties. Was their move to California about escaping the spotlight, or were they trying to avoid a deeper investigation?

Meghan Markle’s Media Control: A Double-Edged Sword

Meghan Markle is known for expertly controlling her public image. From heartfelt interviews to carefully curated social media posts, she has shaped the narrative surrounding her life with precision.

But Engelson’s allegations pose a serious threat to that control. Meghan’s silence on these claims has been notable. Is it a strategic move, or does it suggest there’s some truth to the story?

The Duchess’s next steps could be critical. Will she address the claims head-on, or wait for the controversy to die down? Either way, her response—or lack thereof—will speak volumes.

The royal family has remained characteristically silent on this matter. Buckingham Palace has long adhered to the “never complain, never explain” philosophy, but behind closed doors, these allegations may be causing significant strain.

If the claims about Lilibet’s surrogacy or Archie’s paternity gain traction, it could reignite tensions between Harry and his family. Could this scandal further alienate the Sussexes from the monarchy, or is reconciliation still possible?

At its core, this story taps into universal themes: secrets, power, and the allure of the rich and famous. Meghan and Harry’s story represents a clash of tradition and modernity, making it hard for the public to look away.

Whether you support Meghan or question her motives, this drama has everyone emotionally invested—and that’s what keeps the headlines coming.

This controversy offers more than just juicy gossip. There are valuable lessons to be learned:

Transparency Matters: Secrets rarely stay hidden in today’s digital age.

Control Your Narrative: Meghan’s journey shows the importance of owning your story before someone else does.

Compassion Is Key: Regardless of your stance, it’s important to remember that public figures are human too.

The British monarchy’s traditions place immense importance on direct biological lineage. If Lilibet was indeed born via a surrogate and this was concealed, it could set a controversial precedent.

Would such revelations force the monarchy to modernize its rules, or would it tighten restrictions to preserve tradition? This debate could define the monarchy’s future in a rapidly evolving world.

Why is Engelson speaking out now? With the Sussexes focusing on Hollywood projects and public appearances, the timing is curious. Could his claims be part of a broader strategy to challenge Meghan’s narrative, or is this simply unresolved personal bitterness?

Some speculate that others may come forward with their own accounts, further complicating the Sussexes’ efforts to control the story.

The Sussexes have consistently framed their departure from royal life as a bid for privacy and independence. Could Engelson’s allegations be an attempt to discredit their narrative?

Harry’s memoir, Spare, gave readers a glimpse into the challenges of living under royal scrutiny. These new claims threaten to undo the progress they’ve made in crafting their own legacy.

The media has played a significant role in fueling the fire of this controversy. While some outlets aim to uncover the truth, others are clearly motivated by sensationalism.

Meghan’s complicated relationship with the press has made her a polarizing figure. Whether true or false, Engelson’s claims are now a part of the media’s endless coverage of the Sussexes.

In the ongoing royal drama surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton has reportedly had a brutal realization regarding her position in the feud,

especially in light of recent revelations about how she has been portrayed in the media. According to sources close to the royal family, Kate feels as though she has been “thrown under the bus”

by her brother-in-law Harry, as well as by the media storm surrounding the couple. Despite her previously cordial relationship with Harry, the growing tensions between the Sussexes

and the Cambridges have put Kate in a difficult position. As details continue to emerge about the rift, it’s clear that Kate is grappling with the fallout from Harry’s public statements and the negative portrayal

of her family, which has left her feeling unsupported and betrayed. This situation has forced Kate to come to terms with the harsh reality that,

despite her longstanding dedication to royal duties, she has become an unwitting pawn in a far bigger royal feud.

Kate Middleton has always been known for her grace under pressure and her unwavering commitment to her royal responsibilities. Throughout her time in the public eye, she has carefully managed her image as a supportive wife to Prince William and a loving mother to their three children. However, as the tensions between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family have intensified, Kate has found herself increasingly caught in the crossfire. Harry’s ongoing public criticisms of the monarchy and his decision to speak out about his family in interviews, most notably in his memoir Spare, have drawn attention to the divides within the royal family. In these moments, Kate has been implicated, sometimes indirectly, in the ongoing feud, leaving her to reconsider her position within the family dynamic. With Meghan and Harry’s constant media presence, Kate has felt the pressure of being portrayed as the villain in their narrative, despite her efforts to maintain neutrality and peace.

The phrase “thrown under the bus” captures Kate’s sense of betrayal, as it implies that her reputation and her actions have been used to further the interests of others—specifically, Prince Harry. Harry’s public remarks about royal life have made it increasingly clear that he sees the institution as one that has failed him and his family. In doing so, he has cast his relatives, including Kate, in a negative light, suggesting that they were complicit in the royal family’s shortcomings and dysfunctions. For Kate, this has been a particularly harsh blow, as she has long prided herself on being a stabilizing force within the family. The increasing strain between Harry and William, and the way their wives have been portrayed in the media, has forced Kate into an uncomfortable and defensive position. Despite her best efforts to stay above the drama, Kate now finds herself the subject of public scrutiny and gossip, something she has worked hard to avoid throughout her time in the royal spotlight.

Kate’s brutal realization also stems from the fact that, while Harry has been open about his grievances with the royal family, Kate has largely remained silent. Her reticence to speak out publicly about the rift has led to her being somewhat sidelined in the media, yet she remains an important figure in the ongoing narrative. While Harry and Meghan continue to dominate headlines, particularly with their accusations and their newfound freedom from royal duties, Kate has had to navigate the difficult reality that her family’s reputation is being shaped by forces beyond her control. In many ways, her silence has only fueled the media’s speculation, with some suggesting that she is complicit in the very issues Harry and Meghan have highlighted. For Kate, this ongoing tension has forced her to reconsider how she fits into the family dynamic, and whether she will continue to take a backseat as the situation worsens or if she will eventually speak out to defend herself and her family.

Kate Middleton’s family has long been a source of support for the Duchess of Cambridge, but their influence took on a particularly significant role during one of the Royal Family’s most challenging periods.

In 2020, the British monarchy faced a year of intense scrutiny and hardship, as personal and public matters involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle dominated headlines. This tumultuous period,

which some have referred to as the Royal Family’s “most traumatic year,” saw the couple stepping down from royal duties and moving to the United States, leaving the monarchy to deal with the fallout.

It was during this time that Kate’s family, particularly her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, became key figures in providing emotional and practical support for Kate,

who was navigating her own responsibilities within the royal fold. The relationship between the Middletons and the royal family has always been close, but it became even more evident

during this crisis. As tensions within the Royal Family escalated, Kate relied on the grounding influence of her family, who were a consistent presence during the difficult months. Carole Middleton, in particular,

is known for being a steady, calming influence in Kate’s life. Carole’s role as a supportive mother and confidante became even more crucial as Kate faced the challenges of supporting her family publicly

while also managing personal pressure behind closed doors. The Middleton family’s down-to-earth nature and strong family values offered Kate a vital sense of stability amidst the whirlwind of royal drama.

During this turbulent time, Kate’s family not only offered emotional support but also helped with practical matters. Carole and Michael Middleton, who have always been close to their daughter, were often seen providing care for their grandchildren, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. This allowed Kate and her husband, Prince William, to focus on their royal duties and manage the challenges that came with them. The Middletons’ willingness to step in and take an active role in caring for the children helped alleviate some of the pressure on the young couple, ensuring that their family life remained as stable as possible during an otherwise chaotic period. The importance of this support cannot be overstated, as it gave Kate the space she needed to manage her own emotional wellbeing while fulfilling her public obligations.

Moreover, the Middletons’ role extended beyond just personal support; they also helped Kate navigate the complex dynamics of being a member of the Royal Family during a time of internal strife. As tensions between the royals and Prince Harry and Meghan became more public, the Middletons played a discreet yet vital role in providing advice and perspective to Kate. The Middleton family’s experience in managing their own business and public image likely gave them a unique understanding of the pressure Kate faced. They knew how to maintain a sense of normality and groundedness, something that would have been invaluable as Kate weathered the storm of media scrutiny and royal family conflicts. Their guidance helped Kate stay focused on her duties and, perhaps more importantly, to protect her mental health in a time when many of her fellow royals were struggling with similar pressures.

In many ways, the Middleton family’s involvement during this difficult time helped Kate become even more central to the Royal Family’s efforts to maintain stability and unity. Her ability to manage her responsibilities with grace and poise, even while privately navigating her own challenges, reinforced her role as a pillar of the monarchy. With the Middletons by her side, Kate was able to weather the storm of the Royal Family’s “most traumatic year,” providing a much-needed sense of normality and emotional support. Their influence in her life, both as a family and as individuals, has undoubtedly been crucial in shaping her ability to maintain her position within the royal fold and fulfill her duties as the Duchess of Cambridge.

The Royal Family’s Christmas is steeped in tradition and has been shaped by generations of royals who have come before. While King Charles will be joined at the Sandringham Estate by most of his family, it is thought that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as well as their two young children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will be absent.

With a Christmas in the Californian sunshine likely on the cards again this year, a top royal expert has examined how the family may choose to spend the day and what the couple will do to “delight” Archie and Lilibet. “Meghan strikes me as a real home-maker and I’m sure everything in Montecito will be exquisitely tasteful, but also child friendly, because Meghan and Harry focus so much on their children and family life,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond exclusively told OK!

Referring to how the lead up to Christmas will be even more magical for five-year-old Archie and three-year-old Lilibet, Jennie adds: “Their kids are at one of the most magical stages of childhood when everything is spine-tinglingly new and exciting, and Santa is indisputably real.

“I think there is still a lot of the child in Harry as he was always the playful, mischievous one – and I’m sure he throws himself into Christmas fun with Archie and Lilibet.

“Estranged as Harry and Meghan are from so many members of their respective families, Christmas must be more about friends than family. But Doria is a constant in their lives, and Meghan spoke recently about how she loved having her mum nearby.”

The family are expected to spend Christmas in California again ( 
Image:
HSH Alexi Lubomirski)
As for what fun will be in store on the day and how it will dramatically differ from the festive celebrations Prince Harry will remember from is visits to Sandringham, the expert concludes: “I think they will join forces to create a wonderful, sunny, Christmas Day with fabulous food, maybe some friends and lots of games and music.

“In California, they can provide have a bit of a pool party to work off the food and have some fun – all very informal and very different from the Christmas festivities at Sandringham that Harry will remember.”

While Harry and Meghan will likely be spending the Christmas period in the sun, the rest of the Royal Family will return to Norfolk and enjoy many classic traditions which have been shaped by the generations who have come before them.

Speaking ahead of Queen Elizabeth II’s death, royal expert Robert Jobson mused: “On Christmas Eve when all the clan are together, the Queen’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren put the finishing touches to the 20ft Christmas tree in the White Drawing Room.

“Presents will be opened that day at tea time as the royals still keep to the German practice of opening their gifts on Christmas Eve. Gifts are laid out in the Red Drawing Room on a white linen-covered trestle table, with cards marking exactly where the piles of gifts should be put.

“Once everyone has arrived, the royal guests enjoy a traditional Christmas that includes putting the finishing touches on the Christmas tree and the giving of cheap and humorous gifts.”

In a recent development that has captured widespread attention, Prince Harry made a revealing comment about his father, King Charles, that experts believe sheds light on the ongoing tension between the two.

According to sources, Harry’s remark, which was characterized by a palpable sense of “anger,” reflects the deep-seated frustrations he feels toward his father, as well as the broader strain in their relationship.

The comment came at a time when Harry’s public statements and personal revelations about his life within the royal family have been highly scrutinized.

In particular, the tension between father and son has been magnified by the release of Harry’s memoir Spare, which contains a series of candid and critical assessments of his father’s actions and parenting.

Harry’s recent remark appears to reinforce the perception that, despite King Charles’s role as monarch, the emotional rift

between them remains unresolved, and the wounds Harry has expressed continue to shape his relationship with his family.

Harry’s relationship with his father has long been a complex and evolving one, and the prince’s recent comment illustrates just how unresolved their differences may be. In Spare, Harry detailed instances of feeling sidelined and misunderstood by his father, especially in the wake of his mother, Princess Diana’s death. He also criticized King Charles for being emotionally distant, a trait that Harry perceived as a form of neglect during his formative years. Many royal watchers believe that Harry’s frustrations with his father stem not only from these past grievances but also from the broader dynamics within the royal family. Charles, who ascended to the throne in 2022, represents the continuation of the very system and family structure that Harry has distanced himself from. His public criticisms of the monarchy, as well as his decision to step away from royal duties with his wife, Meghan Markle, in 2020, only seem to have widened the gap between father and son, further straining their relationship.

The remark, which was described as being tinged with anger, also sheds light on Harry’s ongoing struggle with his place in the royal family. His anger, according to commentators, is not just directed at King Charles, but at the broader system that Harry feels has failed him and his wife, Meghan. The couple’s decision to step back from royal duties was in large part motivated by their desire to escape the relentless scrutiny and control of the monarchy and the British media. In interviews and media appearances, Harry has spoken at length about feeling trapped in a system that he believes is steeped in outdated traditions and toxic behavior. His anger, therefore, may be a reflection of the broader disillusionment he feels, not just with his father, but with the royal institution as a whole.

Despite the public outpouring of his grievances, Harry has occasionally expressed a desire for reconciliation with his father and his family, though the road to healing appears long and complicated. In recent interviews, Harry has suggested that he would be open to rebuilding his relationship with King Charles, but only under certain conditions. He has emphasized the need for truth and acknowledgment of the pain he and Meghan have endured, particularly in relation to how the family handled their departure from royal life. However, the anger that Harry’s recent remark reveals suggests that, at least in the short term, the relationship remains fraught with unresolved emotions. The lack of significant communication between father and son since Harry’s memoir was published suggests that a meaningful dialogue has yet to occur, and this latest outburst could be seen as a sign that Harry is still seeking an emotional reckoning with his father.

The future of Harry’s relationship with King Charles remains uncertain, and it is clear that the emotional distance between the two is far from being bridged. While Harry continues to speak publicly about his experiences, King Charles has largely remained silent on the matter, focusing on his role as monarch and his duties to the nation. This dynamic—where Harry publicly airs his grievances while Charles maintains a more reserved position—has only intensified the tension, leaving little room for resolution in the immediate future. Harry’s “anger” remark thus represents not only his personal frustrations but also a symbol of the broader challenges the royal family faces as it navigates its public image and internal dynamics. Whether the prince will ever reconcile with his father, or whether the rift will continue to grow, is something only time will tell, but it is clear that Harry’s feelings of anger remain a significant factor in shaping the future of his relationship with King Charles.

Queen Camilla kicked off Christmas with one of her most-loved traditions – and made a heartwrenching comment about 2024 coming to an end amid health battles for King Charles and the Princess of Wales.

The Queen invited a group of terminally and seriously-ill youngsters to a magical morning of festive fun, decorating her Christmas tree and enjoying a sausages and mash lunch. The annual tradition – now in its 19th year – at Clarence House sees children supported by the hospice Helen & Douglas House and Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity to spend a morning with her at Clarence House, with a host of special surprises.

The children and young people were overjoyed to be met by Father Christmas before Her Majesty, as patron of both charities, invited them to decorate a Christmas tree in the Library.

 

Queen Camilla enlists her young guests to help her decorate the Clarence House Christmas tree ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
They were also treated to a Christmas performance by the Band and Bugles of the Rifles before joining the Queen for a lunch. Despite the upbeat event, Camilla revealed to one family she was looking forward to an end to 2024, which has proved to be so challenging for the royal family because of the cancer diagnoses for both her husband, the King and Kate.

Marie Verney, 48, who attended with daughters Katie, 17, and Faye, 12, who has complex medical needs, chatted to Her Majesty at length after she had served up plates of sausage and mash in the shape of smiling faces and spooned gravy onto the plates of the eight youngsters invited to her annual festive lunch.

Marie, who was widowed when Faye was a baby, said of Camilla: “She was very understanding and sympathetic of people’s lives. And her life hasn’t been easy this year, has it? She said she’d be glad to get to the end of the year and I think a lot of the families here feel like that as well.

“So there was that mutual understanding, but also, she’s a fun grandma. She talked about her granddaughters herself because they are 17, like Katie. She’s a really down to earth lady and put us at ease.

Camilla greets one young boy to her annual event ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
“To me it was as though she was like a grandma, the concern, but also the fun – she’s mischief. She said to Katie have you got a drink? She had elderflower. She said: ‘Surely you’d like champagne?’ Katie said yes. Next thing you know, she’d gone and got a glass of champagne for Katie and then she talked to Katie about driving and driving lessons, and then more serious stuff.”

 

It’s no secret that Prince William and Prince Harry’s relationship has been pretty icy for some time now, but Queen Camilla’s son has shed fresh light on their troubles.

The brothers were once so close that they seemed to the public totally inseparable – and the challenges both went through together in their young life with the loss of their mother Princess Diana meant that the brothers shared a complete understanding of what growing up in the royal spotlight really meant.

And in a new interview, William and Harry’s stepbrother – Tom Parker Bowles, 49 – opened up about his impressions of the challenges they have faced. Queen Camilla’s told The Telegraph that even though his own experiences with this kind of public scrutiny were far less intense than what William and Harry had dealt with, it gave him a sense of the difficulties they endured, particularly as they were growing up.

Tom – a broadcaster and food writer – is the eldest child of Queen Camilla and her first husband, Andrew Parker Bowles, and saw firsthand the intense public attention that his mother received due to her romantic connection to King Charles during the monarch’s first marriage to Diana.

In his younger years, he got a taste of the constant scrutiny that his stepbrothers William and Harry have been under their entire lives, and called what the brothers have been put through “appalling”.

“I remember being chased at 100mph by paps trying to get a shot. My mother being screamed at to try to get a reaction. Pushing, jostling. It was horrific, and you are protective of your mother. Counting how many paps were at the gates, to see who was watching us and taking photographs: it was all as normal as bacon and eggs in the morning. You didn’t think of it in any other way … [But] it was barbaric.”

While Tom showed some hesitance to speak about his stepbrothers, he could not help but express sympathy for how much worse they have had it. “I learned a long time ago not to put my fat fingers into the world of William and Harry,” the food writer said. “But it was appalling what they went through. I’ve had a billionth of what they’ve had to go through but hell, I sympathise.”

Camilla and Charles were romantically on and off for decades, but it was only in 2005 upon their marriage that William and Harry gained two step-siblings, Tom and Laura, 46