Royal news – live: Prince William attends FA Cup Final as Harry and Meghan portrait finds new home

The Prince of Wales attended the highly anticipated Emirates FA Cup Final between Manchester City and Manchester United on Saturday.

Prince William was joined by Prince George as he presented the FA Cup to winners Manchester United at Wembley.

Stood together with this son, William handed the trophy to team captain Bruno Fernandes after the side’s 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City on Saturday.

Both royals shook hands with both teams as they collected their runners-up and winners’ medals respectively.

As for Prince Harry, a portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has been added to the National Portrait Gallery‘s permanent collection in London.

The announcement was made by Misan Harriman, Harry and Meghan’s friend and favoured photographer.

He posted an image of the portrait online which shows the couple holding hands and gazing into the distance.

Mr Harriman wrote on social media: “I am humbled and proud to announce that my portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is now part of the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery. Dare to dream folks!”

Key Points

• William and George present trophy to FA Cup winners Manchester United

• Prince of Wales meets teams as he attends all-Manchester FA Cup final

• Sarah Ferguson tells off audience at Cannes Film Festival

• Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s latest tour location ‘revealed'

• New portrait honours Kate Middleton’s ‘courage and dignity’

William and Kate issue statement after RAF pilot killed in Spitfire crash

09:26 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Prince and Princess of Wales have said they are “incredibly sad” after a Royal Air Force pilot died in a Spitfire crash near RAF Coningsby.

Police and emergency services rushed to the scene on Langrick Road in Lincolnshire just before 1.20pm on Saturday.

The Spitfire of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) was flying near the air station when the crash took place.

William and Kate issue statement after RAF pilot killed in Spitfire crash

Picture of Harry and Meghan added to National Portrait Gallery’s collection

06:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

A photograph of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has become part of the National Portrait Gallery’s permanent collection.

The portrait was taken by their long-time friend and photographer Misan Harriman at the One Young World event in Manchester in September 2022, just a few days before the death of the Queen.

The black and white image captures Meghan and Harry before they took to the stage and shows the couple side-on, looking composed as they stand next to one another holding hands.

Picture of Harry and Meghan added to National Portrait Gallery’s collection

Why is Prince William an Aston Villa fan?

05:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

Speaking to the BBC in 2015, William explained why he decided to support Aston Villa over some of the larger clubs.

“A long time ago at school I got into football big time. I was looking around for clubs. All my friends at school were either Man United fans or Chelsea fans and I didn’t want to follow the run of the mill teams,” he said.

“I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table that could give me more emotional rollercoaster moments.

“Aston Villa’s always had a great history. I have got friends of mine who support Aston Villa and one of the first FA Cup games I went to was Bolton v Aston Villa back in 2000. Sadly, Villa went on to lose to Chelsea.

“It was fantastic, I sat with all the fans with my red beanie on, and I was sat with all the Brummie fans and had a great time.

“It was the atmosphere, the camaraderie and I really felt that there was something I could connect with.”

William and George present trophy to FA Cup winners Manchester United

04:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Prince of Wales was joined by Prince George as he presented the FA Cup to winners Manchester United at Wembley.

William, stood together with this son, handed the trophy to team captain Bruno Fernandes after the side’s 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City on Saturday.

Both royals shook hands with both teams as they collected their runners-up and winners’ medals respectively.

George, 10, could be seen exchanging a few words with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as the latter walked past.

He also spoke briefly with former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson following the full-time whistle.

William had earlier met the teams on the pitch ahead of of the showpiece match.

King’s wealth jumps £10 million to £610 million, Sunday Times Rich List reveals

03:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The King’s personal wealth has jumped by £10 million to £610 million in the last year, according to analysis by The Sunday Times Rich List.

Charles, who acceded to the throne less than two years ago, ranks 258th in the list of the UK’s 350 wealthiest people and families, up from 263rd place in 2023.

Calculations by the newspaper’s Rich List suggest the monarch has benefited from a boost to the net worth of his properties.

King’s wealth jumps £10 million to £610 million, Sunday Times Rich List reveals

Princess Beatrice pays tribute to Sarah Ferguson as she reads book to school children

02:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

Princess Beatrice praised the Duchess of York‘s parenting as she read an award-winning book to primary school pupils in south London on Thursday, 23 May.

The 35-year-old paid tribute to Sarah Ferguson, describing how she “grew up with an incredible mum” and reflecting on the importance of storytelling for young people as she met children at West Thornton Primary School in Croydon.

The duchess has written books for children such as the Budgie the Little Helicopter series.

Beatrice, the royal patron for the Oscar’s Book Prize, read When Dinosaurs Walked The Earth by Sean Taylor and illustrated by Zehra Hicks, which topped this year’s shortlist.

Artist reveals why his portrait of the King is so red

01:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The artist who painted the King’s latest portrait has revealed why the artwork is so red.

The painting by Jonathan Yeo, which was unveiled by the monarch at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, depicts the King wearing the uniform of the Welsh Guards against a red backdrop.

The unusual portrait has divided opinion amongst royal fans and social media users, with some saying the large swathes of red made them “uncomfortable” and that it looked like the monarch was “in hell”.

Artist reveals why his portrait of the King is so red

Prince William cracks joke as he welcomes guests to Buckingham Palace garden party

00:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Prince of Wales cracked a joke as he greeted guests at the Buckingham Palace garden party.

Wiliam braved torrential downpours at the event on Tuesday (21 May) as he joked it was “good weather for swimming”.

William was greeted by a sea of umbrellas when he hosted the summer event for his father, with the weather leaving some guests drenched and others sheltering in the tea tents.

Around 8,000 people were invited to one of the summer highlights of the royal calendar, including William’s cousins, princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and Zara Tindall, with her husband Mike.

Queen Elizabeth portrait sells for over £400K at Cannes

23:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

A portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth has been auctioned off for £404,892 at the Cannes Film Festival.

Sarah Ferguson did the honours of selling the portrait by Chris Levine, with the proceeds going to charity.

The striking image appears to show the late Monarch asleep.

Duke of Westminster: Billionaire Hugh Grosvenor set for ‘society wedding of the year’ with William as usher

21:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The seventh Duke of Westminster – once dubbed one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors – is officially the richest man in the UK under 40.

According to the 2024 Sunday Times Rich List, Hugh Grosvenor, 33, has a net worth of £10.127 billion – a substantial increase from the £9.878 billion he had in 2023.

However, he is soon set to lose his bachelor status when he ties the knot in the society wedding of the year next month.

‘Britain’s most eligible bachelor’ who owns half of Mayfair reveals shock next move

Prince William and Kate pay tribute to RAF solider killed in plane crash

20:18 , Holly Evans

Prince William and Kate have paid tribute to the RAF pilot who was killed on Saturday afternoon after his Spitfire plane crashed during a Battle of Britain commemoration event.

In a personal tweet on the social media site X, the Prince and Princess of Wales said: “Incredibly sad to hear of the news this afternoon from RAF Coningsby.

“Our thoughts this evening are with the pilot’s loved ones, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and the wider RAF family. W & C.”

The Prince of Wales was Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby between 2008 and 2023 before handing over the role to the Princess of Wales in August 2023.

Read the full article here:

RAF pilot dies after Spitfire crashes in field during Battle of Britain event

20:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

Queen Camilla makes Bridgerton admission during Chelsea Flower Show visit

King Charles bursts into laughter as Declan Donnelly makes breastfeeding joke about Ant McPartlin

19:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

King Charles burst into laughter at a joke Declan Donnelly made about Ant McPartlin during a funny encounter at Buckingham Palace.

The King met Dec as the monarch hosted a reception for winners of the Prince’s Trust Awards on Wednesday (22 May).

Charles asked Dec where his right-hand man was, as Dec explained how Ant wasn’t able to attend the event after welcoming a new son with wife Anne-Marie, just a week ago.

Dec said: “Good to see you, nice to see you too. He’s [Ant] not here today but he sends his apologies. He’s got a week-old baby so he’s home breastfeeding or something.”

William and George present trophy to FA Cup winners Manchester United

18:09 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Prince of Wales was joined by Prince George as he presented the FA Cup to winners Manchester United at Wembley.

William, stood together with this son, handed the trophy to team captain Bruno Fernandes after the side’s 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City on Saturday.

Both royals shook hands with both teams as they collected their runners-up and winners’ medals respectively.

Manchester United seize the day for a famous FA Cup win as City lose their edge

18:00 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

King has hobby Queen refuses to ‘interfere’ with, royal expert claims

William meets teams as he attends all-Manchester FA Cup final

16:30 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Prince of Wales shook hands with both teams on the pitch as he attended the FA Cup final at Wembley.

William greeted players from Manchester United and Manchester City as well as both teams’ managers ahead of the showpiece match on Saturday.

He has been president of the Football Association since taking over the role from the Duke of York in 2006.

William meets teams as he attends all-Manchester FA Cup final

In pictures: Prince William attends FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium

15:24 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

King Charles becomes patron of Gordonstoun school in Scotland

14:20 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

King Charles on Friday become a patron of his old school in Scotland, Gordonstoun.

The Monarch, 75, accepted the role previously held by his father, Prince Philip, to mark the anniversary of his coronation.

The King attended the boarding school between 1962 and 1967 before studying anthropology at Trinity College Cambridge.

School principal Lisa Kerr said: “We are honoured that His Majesty has accepted patronage of the Gordonstoun Association.

“As our most prominent former student, His Majesty exemplifies so many of the qualities we seek to instil in our students, notably a lifelong commitment to service.

“That His Majesty has chosen a patronage of our alumni body is a great honour both for the school and all members of the Gordonstoun Association.

“We look forward to His Majesty’s engagement and support with the association and its members in the years to come.”

Picture of Harry and Meghan added to National Portrait Gallery’s collection

13:20 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

A photograph of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has become part of the National Portrait Gallery’s permanent collection.

The portrait was taken by their long-time friend and photographer Misan Harriman at the One Young World event in Manchester in September 2022, just a few days before the death of the Queen.

The black and white image captures Meghan and Harry before they took to the stage and shows the couple side-on, looking composed as they stand next to one another holding hands.

Picture of Harry and Meghan added to National Portrait Gallery’s collection

11:45 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

A portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has been added to the National Portrait Gallery‘s permanent collection in London.

The announcement was made by Misan Harriman, Harry and Meghan’s friend and favoured photographer.

He posted an image of the portrait online which shows the couple holding hands and gazing into the distance.

Mr Harriman wrote on social media: “I am humbled and proud to announce that my portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is now part of the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery. Dare to dream folks!”

Sarah Ferguson orders Cannes Film Festival audience to be 'quiet' as she tells them off

10:58 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

Sarah Ferguson ordered the Cannes Film Festival audience to be “quiet” as she scolded them for “looking for the next party” when they should be worrying about the climate crisis.

The Duchess of York, 64, lost her cool as the crowd continued to speak over her while she stood on stage at a gala auction on Thursday night (23 May).

She thanked auctioneer Simon de Pury as a portrait of the late Queen was sold off for €475,000 in aid of charity - before lecturing the crowd on the environment.

“What I want to say, is why are we here? What is the future and why are we not making our planet better for the youth of tomorrow?” Fergie questioned.

Prince George expected to attend FA Cup final with his father

09:55 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

Prince George might be joining his father Prince William to watch the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium later today.

The 10-year-old, who enjoys sports and often attends football games with his father, is expected to attend the highly-anticipated match between Manchester City and Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

The Prince of Wales, who is president of the Football Association, will take his seat in the royal box and then present the trophy to the winning team.

Looking ahead to the final, under pressure United boss Erik ten Hag Ten Hag said: “Every game I want to win and I just focus on this game as I do for every game, I know it’s an important game as it’s about a trophy. An FA Cup final is a big event and we are there. We have an opportunity, we have to go for it and we will go for it.”

Kate Middleton makes ‘return’ as she issues first major update on project since cancer diagnosis

09:20 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The Princess of Wales made a tentative return alongside Prince William by issuing her first project update since her cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

Kate, 41, did so on Mental Health Awareness Week in a joint post with the Prince of Wales last weekend highlighting the psychological struggles young farmers can face.

The couple wrote on X (Twitter) via the Kensington Royal account: “This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek we’ve brought together the inspirational Sam Stables from We Are Farming Minds and the brilliant Farmer Will for a very special film.

Kate Middleton issues first major update on project since cancer diagnosis

Queen Elizabeth portrait sells for over £400K at Cannes

06:00 , Emma Guinness

A portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth has been auctioned off for £404,892 at the Cannes Film Festival.

Sarah Ferguson did the honours of selling the portrait by Chris Levine, with the proceeds going to charity.

The striking image appears to show the late Monarch asleep.

A goat King Charles made as a student expected to fetch £10k at auction

05:00 , Barney Davis

A pottery goat made by King Charles when he was a university student is expected to fetch around £10,000 when it is auctioned.

The ceramic mammal, made more than 50 years ago, is thought to be the only pottery created by the monarch in existence.

It was given to retired carpenter Raymond Patten 55 years ago by his great aunt. She was a cook at Cambridge University, where the King studied from 1967 to 1970.

Duke of Westminster: Billionaire Hugh Grosvenor set for ‘society wedding of the year’ with William as usher

18:11 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain

The seventh Duke of Westminster – once dubbed one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors – is officially the richest man in the UK under 40.

According to the 2024 Sunday Times Rich List, Hugh Grosvenor, 33, has a net worth of £10.127 billion – a substantial increase from the £9.878 billion he had in 2023.

However, he is soon set to lose his bachelor status when he ties the knot in the society wedding of the year next month.

Despite owning roughly half of Mayfair, Grosvenor will opt for leafier surrounds when he marries Olivia Grace Henson at Chester Cathedral in Cheshire on 7 June.

‘Britain’s most eligible bachelor’ who owns half of Mayfair reveals shock next move

Queen Camilla accepts patronage from National Horse Racing Museum

04:00 , Emma Guinness

Queen Camilla has accepted a patronage from the National Horse Racing Museum, after opening the building back in 2016.

Her patronage was announced to celebrate the first anniversary of the coronation.

Frances Stanley, the chairman of the museum’s board of trustees, said: “HM The Queen, being a talented horsewoman, has shown great enthusiasm for equestrian sports over many years.

“We have had the honour of welcoming her to the museum, most recently in June 2023.”

Prince George expected to attend FA Cup final with his father

03:00 , Barney Davis

Prince George might be joining his father Prince William to watch the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium later today.

The 10-year-old, who enjoys sports and often attends football games with his father, is expected to attend the highly-anticipated match between Manchester City and Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

The Prince of Wales, who is president of the Football Association, will take his seat in the royal box and then present the trophy to the winning team.

Looking ahead to the final, under pressure United boss Erik ten Hag Ten Hag said: “Every game I want to win and I just focus on this game as I do for every game, I know it’s an important game as it’s about a trophy. An FA Cup final is a big event and we are there. We have an opportunity, we have to go for it and we will go for it.”

King Charles praised for new Gordonstoun partronage

02:00 , Emma Guinness

King Charles has been praised for accepting a patronage at his old school Gordonstoun.

The Monarch, 75, accepted the honour to mark the anniversary of his coronation and he has been described as the best person for the job by the Gordonstoun Association.

Heather Woodward, chairwoman of the association, said: “The aim of the Gordonstoun Association is to promote and strengthen pupils’ links with each other and the school.

“There is no person more suited than the King to highlight the unique experience of what it means to be a former student of Gordonstoun, and I am therefore delighted that His Majesty has accepted patronage of the Gordonstoun Association.

“Although it’s almost 60 years since His Majesty attended Gordonstoun, his duty to service is an example of how the ethos and values of the school teaches students to think about others rather than themselves.

“We are looking forward to engaging with the King on his views on how we can further the aims of the association.”

The King has prorogued Parliament for the first time during his reign for the General Election.

01:00 , Barney Davis

The formal ending of the current session paves the way for the monarch, who came to the throne in September 2022, to also make his debut in ordering a dissolution on May 30.

The royal proclamation discharges Parliament, at which point all seats in the House of Commons become vacant ahead of the July 4 poll.

In line with convention, the prorogation announcement was read out on behalf of the King at a traditional ceremony in the House of Lords, which saw leading members of the upper chamber don the traditional scarlet robes and doff their cocked hats.

Elected members, led by Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, filed out of the Commons after their attendance in the upper chamber was requested by Black Rod Sarah Clarke, a senior Lords officer tasked with overseeing the proceedings.

Harry and Meghan portrait photographer says he’s ‘lucky'

Saturday 25 May 2024 00:00 , Emma Guinness

The artist behind a new portrait of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle that’s been acquired by the National Portrait Gallery has said he is “lucky”.

Misan Harriman, a friend of the couple, said that Meghan is like a “sister” to him.

“I’ve been very lucky to photograph many special moments with her and her husband and her family,” he said.

A spokesperson for the gallery told PEOPLE that there are no immediate plans to display the image, which was taken in 2022 after Harry and Meghan stepped down as working royals.

Harry and Meghan picture acquired by the National Portrait Gallery

Friday 24 May 2024 22:00 , Emma Guinness

A portrait of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle that was taken just days before Queen Elizabeth’s death in 2022 has been acquired by the National Portrait Gallery.

The announcement was made on Instagram by photographer Misan Harriman, who is also a friend of the couple.

“I am humbled and proud to announce that my portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is now part of the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery,” he wrote. “Dare to dream folks!”

The picture was taken on 5 September 2022 after the couple stepped down as working royals and just three days before Queen Elizabeth passed away.

Fergie’s custom-made cocktail dress for Cannes

Friday 24 May 2024 20:00 , Emma Guinness

The Duchess of York spared no expense in her outfit for this year’s Cannes Film Festival and spent £13,202 on her dress alone.

The custom-made Lilith Cocktail Dress was worn by Sarah Ferguson as she auctioned off a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth for charity.

However, the auction – which raised over £400,000 – did not go smoothly and at one point a frustrated Fergie told the rowdy crowd to be quiet and stop focusing on “the next party”.

Duchess of York appears to take aim at Prince Harry and King Charles

Friday 24 May 2024 15:43 , Emma Guinness

The Duchess of York has spoken of the importance of family in an apparent swipe at Prince Harry and King Charles.

Sarah Ferguson made the comments an the Cannes Film Festival after recovering from a second bout of cancer this year.

“I think family unity is key…” she said before adding: “I think the key to life is that we all support each other.

“And also forgiveness is a great thing. I think forgiveness of yourself, and forgiveness of others.”

Her comments come following claims that King Charles snubbed his youngest son on his recent visit to the UK by failing to meet with him, citing his busy schedule after returning to work following his own cancer diagnosis.

Sarah Ferguson tells off audience at Cannes Film Festival

Friday 24 May 2024 14:25 , Emma Guinness

A furious Fergie was caught on camera telling off a rowdy audience at the Cannes Film Festival.

The Duchess of York was auctioning off a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth when she took aim at the audience for caring more about “the next party” than making the planet a better place for future generations.

“Quiet! Because the incredible person Simon de Pury has done an amazing job tonight, this is exceptional, and all I want to say to everyone in this room is stop, stop, stop,” she said.

The proceeds of the sale were being donated to charity.

King Charles becomes patron of Gordonstoun school in Scotland

Friday 24 May 2024 13:45 , Emma Guinness

King Charles has today become a patron of his old school in Scotland, Gordonstoun.

The Monarch, 75, accepted the role previously held by his father, Prince Philip, to mark the anniversary of his coronation.

The King attended the boarding school between 1962 and 1967 before studying anthropology at Trinity College Cambridge.

School principal Lisa Kerr said: “We are honoured that His Majesty has accepted patronage of the Gordonstoun Association.

“As our most prominent former student, His Majesty exemplifies so many of the qualities we seek to instil in our students, notably a lifelong commitment to service.

“That His Majesty has chosen a patronage of our alumni body is a great honour both for the school and all members of the Gordonstoun Association.

“We look forward to His Majesty’s engagement and support with the association and its members in the years to come.”

Prince William set to attend FA Cup final

Friday 24 May 2024 13:18 , Emma Guinness

The Prince of Wales is set to attend the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday (25 May).

Kensington Palace made the announcement today, although it is not known whether he will be joined by Prince George, who sometimes accompanies him to games.

The appearance comes after the royal family cancelled a string of engagements following the general election announcement.

The palace said that any engagement “which may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign” will be cancelled and royal diaries are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Tomorrow’s game will see Manchester City take on Manchester United for the title.

Prince Harry’s decision to turn down King’s royal invite dubbed ‘extraordinary behaviour'

Friday 24 May 2024 09:00 , Emma Guinness

Prince Harry’s alleged decision to turn down King Charles’s offer of staying in a royal residence on his trip to London has been dubbed “extraordinary behaviour”.

The Duke of Sussex, 39, instead chose to stay in a London hotel while briefly visiting to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.

According to reports, this was because of Harry’s ongoing security concerns, but Helena Chard, a British broadcaster and photographer, said this could not have been the case.

“He could have stayed at St. James’ Palace, a stone’s throw away from Clarence House, where the King is usually based,” she told Fox News Digital.

“Harry turned down staying in a palace, where he would have received armed security protection from the SO14 Royalty Protection Group. He chose to stay at a hotel in Mayfair without this protection.

“Not only would he have received armed security protection, there is a far higher chance that he would have seen his father.”

Kate Middleton in ‘very different’ position to King Charles following cancer diagnosis

Friday 24 May 2024 08:24 , Emma Guinness

The Princess of Wales is reportedly in a “very different” position to King Charles following her cancer diagnosis.

The Monarch, 75, returned to work last month while Kate, 42, has not been seen in public since Christmas Day last year.

Now, an insider close to the family has said that she will not undertake any unnecessary duties while she undergoes “preventative chemotherapy”.

“No one wants to put any pressure on Catherine,” the source told the Daily Mail.

“The only thing that matters at the moment is her getting better. She has been through an ordeal this year.

“What this means in practice is that big decisions, such as the appointment of new staff, can wait.

“It’s a reflection of Her Royal Highness’s importance to the future of the Monarchy that she has been given as much time as she needs.”

They added: “As Sovereign, His Majesty is in a very different position from the Princess of Wales.

“There is no need for her to be seen while she’s recovering.”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s latest tour location ‘revealed'

Friday 24 May 2024 06:00 , Barney Davis

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will reportedly undertake their next unofficial tour in Ghana, it has been claimed.

According to a source cited by The Mirror, the couple are currently in talks to be invited to the country following the roaring success of their three-day trip to Nigeria to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Harry’s Invictus Games.

“There is already a lot of talk and excitement in Ghana, everyone is so keen for Harry and Meghan to come and experience the great culture and warmth,” the source said.

“Several top names have already visited Ghana in recent years from Ed Sheeran, Naomi Campbell and One Direction’s Liam Payne. Idris Elba, who DJ’d at Harry and Meghan’s wedding is a regular too, he is part-Ghanaian and loves spending time ‘back home.’”

They added: “Harry certainly won’t be short of people to show him around and they will certainly roll out the red carpet for him, drafting in some of the finest Afro-beats performers to welcome him and his family.

“So perhaps it is only a matter of time before Harry and Meghan come out, and sample the famous jollof rice!”

Artist explains Kate’s Tatler portrait

Friday 24 May 2024 05:00 , Barney Davis

A portrait of Kate Middleton commissioned by Tatler magazine has been attracting mixed reviews online.

Kate did not sit for the portrait of herself. Instead, the artist behind it, Hannah Uzor, a British-Zambian artist, sifted through over 189,000 photos of Kate to “capture her likeness,” according to Tatler.

“It’s really important to capture the soul of the person, so I spent a lot of time looking at her and looking at her pictures, watching videos of her, seeing her with her family, seeing her in diplomatic visits, seeing her rowing or visiting children in a hospice,” Uzor said in a video shared by Tatler on Instagram. “It has been really interesting for me to get a sense of who she is.”

Uzor said she went through multiple sketches to correctly capture Kate’s expression and chose to paint her in the Jenny Packham gown because it was “physically striking.”

“(It)made her look very regal and very confident,” she said.

Royal family apologise for cancelling engagements this week

Friday 24 May 2024 04:00 , Emma Guinness

The royal family have apologised for cancelling a string of engagements following the general election announcement.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “Following the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon calling a General Election, the royal family will, in accordance with normal procedure, postpone engagements that may appear to divert attention or distract from the election campaign.

“Their Majesties send their sincere apologies to any of those who may be affected as a result.”

The upcoming election could see King Charles welcome the third prime minister of his reign.

How Princess Anne reacted to daughter’s ‘unroyal’ piercing

Friday 24 May 2024 03:00 , Barney Davis

Zara Tindall, the daughter of Princess Anne and one of the Queen’s oldest grandchildren, has revealed what her mother truly thought about her “unroyal” piercing.

“At least I didn’t have it coming out of my nose, or anything,” Zara said to Tatler Magazine years later in 2011, discussing her teenage style choice, and it has been reported that Princess Anne didn’t mind her daughter’s metallic accessory at all.

The Princess Royal, “unfazed by [Zara’s] shocking new look, simply [asked] if her daughter could speak properly with her piercing”.

Princess Eugenie issues statement on ‘supporting family’ after Prince Harry snub

Friday 24 May 2024 02:00 , Emma Guinness

Princess Eugenie joined Prince William at the latest Buckingham Palace garden party and spoke of the importance of supporting her family.

This comes after she and every other member of Prince Harry’s immediate family failed to attend the thanksgiving service marking the 10th anniversary of his Invictus Games.

The Princess of York, 34, said: “Come rain or shine, I was delighted to support my family yesterday to meet some special individuals at the Buckingham Palace Garden Party who have gone above and beyond to support their local communities and the country.”

Prince Harry’s ‘deep-rooted’ problems with father - royal expert

Friday 24 May 2024 01:00 , Barney Davis

The Duke of Sussex opted to stay at a hotel in London during his last visit to the UK instead of staying at St James’ Palace.

Royal broadcaster Helena Chard said Harry’s choice seems to suggest there are “deeper-rooted problems” as she described the Duke’s behaviour as “beyond strange”.

Ms Chard told Fox News Digital: “He could have stayed at St James’ Palace, a stone’s throw away from Clarence House, where the King is usually based. Harry turned down staying in a palace, where he would have received armed security protection from the SO14 Royalty Protection Group. He chose to stay at a hotel in Mayfair without this protection.

“Not only would he have received armed security protection, there is a far higher chance that he would have seen his father. It worries me that Prince Harry has deeper-rooted problems, most likely related to his mother, as I feel his behaviour is beyond strange. I am, however, aware that his behavior keeps the victim narrative alive, a narrative which maybe he feels serves a purpose at this time.”

According to a report in The Telegraph, Harry rejected his father’s invitation due to security concerns.

Dec addresses rumours that he’s Ant’s baby’s godfather at Buckingham Palace

Friday 24 May 2024 00:00 , Emma Guinness

Declan Donnelly addressed rumours that he will become the godfather of Ant McPartlin’s baby at a Buckingham Palace reception.

The TV star, who is also 48, said he had not been asked yet, “everybody else has presumed, I won’t presume”, he said.

He then took the opportunity to explain why Ant was not present, joking to King Charles that “he was at home breastfeeding.”

“I don’t know whether I broke royal protocol by giving that information,” he laughed.

The joke went down a storm with the King, who burst out laughing.

King and Prince William scared to strip Sussexes of royal titles

Thursday 23 May 2024 23:00 , Barney Davis

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been using their royal titles as they go globe-trotting.

But royal author and expert Tom Quinn has exclusively told The Mirror that King Charles and Prince William “have had lengthy discussions about stripping Meghan and Harry of their royal titles, but they are terrified this would backfire and make the situation worse”.

Harry and Meghan stepped back from their roles as senior working royals in 2020, with them moving to America mere months later.

The Sussexes proudly sat in chairs labelled ‘Duke’ and ‘Duchess’ during their recent tour of Nigeria.

Princess Beatrice praises picture books for bringing families together

Thursday 23 May 2024 22:00 , Emma Guinness

Princess Beatrice today praised the power of picture books to bring families together while visiting a school in Croydon.

The royal, 35, read children at West Thornton Primary School the picture book When Dinosaurs Walked The Earth, written by Sean Taylor and illustrated by Zehra Hicks.

She then took the opportunity to praise the power of picture books to bring families together.

“I really appreciate what stories can do, that special quality time, that moment at the end of the day, but also how important it is for reading in general for young people to make sure that we can do everything we can to make sure that these books really get into the hands of those that need it most,” she said.

Beatrice, who is married to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, has a two-year-old daughter, Sienna.

‘George is wannabe pilot’ says Prince William

Thursday 23 May 2024 21:00 , Barney Davis

Prince William spoke about his hopes for his son as he mingled with guests at the Buckingham Palace garden party on Tuesday.

According to OK! the Duke of Cambridge spoke with Squadron Leader Chrissie Lacey, a padre serving at RAF Coningsby near Lincoln.

The future king told the minister that ten-year-old George would love to visit the base as he is a “potential pilot in the making”.

George, who is second in line to the throne, has been fascinated with aircraft since he was a toddler, with mum Kate revealing back in 2016 that her then three-year-old son was “obsessed with planes and wants to become an air cadet”.

Royal engagements up in the air following general election annoucement

Thursday 23 May 2024 20:00 , Emma Guinness

Several royal engagements are up in the air following yesterday’s general election announcement.

As is customary, Buckingham Palace released a statement saying that any engagement which “may appear to divert attention from [the] election” will be postponed.

This saw King Charles cancel all of his public engagements for the rest of this week.

Notable events now up in the air include the Trooping of the Colour, which takes place on the King’s official birthday on 15 June, the Order of the Garter on 17 June, as well as a Japanese state visit in late June.

As the Trooping the Colour and Order of the Garter are ceremonial events, it is believed that these will still go ahead but because of the potential political implications, the Japanese state visit could be cancelled.

While the King has cancelled his public-facing engagements this week, he is still working behind the scenes and met with the Privy Council this morning to officially approve the proroguing of parliament ahead of the election.

Reason Kate’s cancer recovery is completely different to King Charles

Thursday 23 May 2024 19:00 , Barney Davis

Reflecting on Kate’s continued absence from public life, a source told the Daily Mail’s Richard Eden: “King Charles very much wanted to be seen by the public while he was undergoing his own cancer treatment – but this has not been the case for his daughter-in-law, however disappointing that might be for her admirers.

“As Sovereign, His Majesty is in a very different position from the Princess of Wales. There is no need for her to be seen while she’s recovering.”

Molly Russell’s father says Online Safety Bill needs tightened

Thursday 23 May 2024 18:00 , Emma Guinness

Ian Russell was yesterday made an MBE for his services to child safety after his 14-year-old daughter took her own life after viewing harmful content online.

He said the honour, which was given by Prince William, was “for my family, and that family still includes Molly”.

Russell was involved in the creation of the Online Safety Bill following his daughter’s death in 2017 and said that in its current form, it still doesn’t go far enough.

He told PA News Agency: “One of the most important areas is to stop thinking about an individual post as to whether or not it’s harmful and start considering how a feed of content that anyone using may see, often algorithmically recommended, is or isn’t harmful,” he said.

“One post on its own might be okay but, if that’s combined with others, it can very quickly become harmful. And that sort of cumulative harm is legislated for in the Bill.

“But I think those clauses in the Bill will need to be tightened up in order to make it a really effective piece of legislation.”

Actor James Martin bonds with Prince William over football

Thursday 23 May 2024 17:00 , Emma Guinness

The actor James Martin and Prince William bonded over their love of football at Windsor Castle.

The An Irish Goodbye star was made an MBE for Services to drama in Northern Ireland at the castle yesterday and said it “means a lot not just for people with Down’s Syndrome, but a lot of people in that particular area”.

He later PA News Agency that he and the Prince of Wales “have something in common: we both like football”.

Martin said they discussed this shared interest and “things in the movie”, which won various accolades including the 2023 Bafta for Best Short Film and the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film.

The actor has now become an inspiration for others with disabilities.

“It doesn’t really matter what disabilities, people come up to me,” he said.

“Whether it’s hidden disabilities like autism or physical disabilities like hearing or blind, they will still come up to me and say ‘aren’t you the one with the Oscar and the Bafta?”

He added: “It’s really lovely to have.”

King formally approves proroguing of parliament ahead of general election

Thursday 23 May 2024 14:38 , Emma Guinness

King Charles has formally approved the proroguing of parliament ahead of yesterday’s general election announcement.

The Monarch, 75, met with the Privy Council at Buckingham Palace this morning and undertook the necessary duties head of this summer’s election.

As published on the council’s website, the King ordered that parliament be “prorogued on a day no earlier than Friday the 24th day of May 2024 and no later than Tuesday the 28th day of May 2024, to Friday the 31st day of May 2024, to be then holden for the despatch of divers urgent and important affairs.”

Princess Beatrice praises mother on school visit

Thursday 23 May 2024 13:55 , Emma Guinness

Princess Beatrice took the opportunity to praise her “incredible mum” on a school visit.

This comes after Beatrice, 35, announced that Sarah Ferguson had recovered from her second cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

The royal read from the picture book When Dinosaurs Walked The Earth, written by Sean Taylor and illustrated by Zehra Hicks, at West Thornton Primary School in Croydon.

She said: “I grew up with an incredible mum, as a children’s author, so stories really created that sense of imagination.

“I really appreciate what stories can do, that special quality time, that moment at the end of the day, but also how important it is for reading in general for young people to make sure that we can do everything we can to make sure that these books really get into the hands of those that need it most.”

New Princess Diana exhibition arriving in London

Thursday 23 May 2024 11:45 , Emma Guinness

A new exhibition featuring photographs of the late Princess Diana is opening in just two days’ time.

Taken by Anwar Hussein, now 86, and his sons Samir, 44, and Zak, 43, Princess Diana: Accredited Access Exhibition is set to be a must-see for fans of the late Princess.

It contains “larger than life images, bespoke art installations and first-hand narration” that give viewers a unique glimpse into the royal’s life.

The exhibition is opening on 25 May at St Katharine Docks in London after being met with critical acclaim in Melbourne, South Carolina and Las Vegas.

Inside Meghan Markle’s trip to Malta

Thursday 23 May 2024 10:00 , Emma Guinness

Following Meghan Markle’s recent revelation that she is 43 percent Nigerian, it has now emerged that she took a trip to Malta to explore her ancestry.

This took place in 2015 shortly before she met Prince Harry and she chose to visit the country as it is “the land from which my great-grandmother hailed.”

“Before I came, people were telling me, ‘When you go to Malta, everyone will look like you,’ and I started to say, ‘Oh my gosh I do sort of blend in,’ and it’s the loveliest feeling,” she remembered.

The Duchess of Sussex experienced a similar sense of belonging on her recent trip to Nigeria with Prince Harry, which she described as “my country” and thanked locals for “welcoming me home”.

The events King Charles will still attend after election annoucement

Thursday 23 May 2024 08:13 , Emma Guinness

Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles will not attend any upcoming events that could “distract” from the general election campaign.

He will, however, still attend major events including the D-Day commemorations and the ongoing series of garden parties at Buckingham Palace will be unaffected.

It has been reported that all upcoming engagements will now be reviewed on a case-by-case basis in light of yesterday’s general election announcement.

The change comes after the King made it clear that he wanted to throw himself back into public life after he was forced to step back earlier this year following his cancer diagnosis.

He has been so keen to work that he attended five events in 48 hours last week.

Recap: Kate Middleton makes ‘return’

Thursday 23 May 2024 07:00 , Jane Dalton

Kate Middleton issues first major update on project since cancer diagnosis

Sunak and King met at Buckingham Palace

Thursday 23 May 2024 04:30 , Jane Dalton

Rishi Sunak revealed he spoke with the King on Wednesday to inform him of his decision to have a general election, and the King had agreed to the request for the dissolution of Parliament.

The Palace said Charles met Mr Sunak in person at Buckingham palace in London on Wednesday afternoon, following Charles’ Prince’s Trust Awards engagement.

They spent around 15 minutes together in the King‘s private audience room, in place of their normal weekly meeting on Wednesday evening.

The King, who is still undergoing treatment for cancer, has carried out a flurry of engagements since restarting public appearances in April and now has a number of duties ahead of him after the Prime Minister announced his plan for the country to go to the polls.