This month, a poignant memorial service will take place at Westminster Abbey in honor of Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh.
His passing last April elicited a significant wave of grief both in the UK and internationally, with numerous European royals extending their condolences to Queen Elizabeth II.
However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, his funeral was a notably subdued affair, allowing only 30 guests to attend the intimate ceremony held at Windsor.
Fortunately, as restrictions have eased in the UK, the upcoming Thanksgiving service on March 29th is set to welcome a larger crowd.
The Queen had previously announced that this special event would occur in the spring of 2022, allowing more family and friends to pay their respects to the beloved royal figure.
While the official guest list remains under wraps, several prominent royals are anticipated to attend, mirroring the attendance at Philip’s funeral.
Among those expected to be present are Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, alongside Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge.
However, not all family members will be in attendance; Prince Harry‘s absence has raised eyebrows, particularly given ongoing tensions regarding security arrangements.
As Queen Elizabeth approaches her 70th year on the throne, she plans to spend more time at her country retreat, a move met with mixed emotions.
The Queen has led an extraordinary life, and many agree she deserves a peaceful retreat to enjoy her later years.
To facilitate this, a £20,000 lift is being installed at her cottage near Balmoral Castle, reflecting recent concerns about her mobility.
Reports have surfaced indicating that the Queen has faced challenges with her movement, often seen using a cane.
This new lift, designed to be wheelchair-friendly, will ensure she can access her bedroom without the strain of stairs.
Heightened security measures are also being implemented at Craig Gowan Lodge, including a gated entrance and surveillance systems, a response to past security breaches.
Traditionally, the Queen visits her cottage twice a year, but royal insiders suggest she may want to spend more time there as she ages.
This cottage holds sentimental value, having been a cherished spot for both Prince Charles and Princess Diana during their honeymoon.
Meanwhile, the Duchess of Cornwall is grappling with her own health issues, having recently battled long COVID.
Despite her recovery, she has been forced to cancel several engagements, including appearances at the Cheltenham Festival.
At 74, Camilla’s schedule has become increasingly demanding, especially following the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties.
Her recent illness has reminded many of the relentless nature of royal responsibilities.
Camilla, known for her dedication, has been working tirelessly to fulfill her commitments, often juggling multiple events in a day.
Her commitment to various charities reflects the hard work that goes into royal duties, which can often be overlooked.
Prince Harry, on the other hand, finds himself embroiled in another public relations misstep.
He has confirmed he will not attend Prince Philip’s memorial service, opting instead to remain in Montecito, California.
This decision has sparked criticism, especially since he plans to travel to the Netherlands for the Invictus Games shortly after.
Royal observers are quick to label Harry’s absence from such a significant family event as a PR blunder.
The juxtaposition of attending a sporting event while skipping a memorial for his grandfather has left many questioning his priorities.
Critics argue that this choice could be perceived as disrespectful, particularly to the Queen.
Adding to the drama, Harry is currently pursuing legal action against the Home Office over personal security arrangements during his visits to the UK.
Despite offering to cover the costs himself, he has faced obstacles, leading to speculation about his future visits and the potential fallout from this ongoing legal saga.
As the royal family navigates these complex dynamics, the upcoming memorial service for Prince Philip stands as a moment of reflection and remembrance.
It will undoubtedly be a bittersweet gathering, highlighting both the legacy of a beloved patriarch and the evolving relationships within the royal family.