MARK OF RESPECT
Meghan Markle stayed in US for Prince Philip’s funeral as she ‘didn’t want to be centre of attention’
MEGHAN Markle stayed in the United States instead of attending Prince Philip's funeral as she reportedly "didn't want to be the centre of attention".
The pregnant duchess's pals said she didn't want to take any of the limelight during the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral on Saturday, the reported.
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Harry made the 5,400-mile journey from the United States back to the UK yesterday to make sure he could attend his grandad Philip’s funeral.
Meghan, who will remain at the couple's home in Montecito, California with son Archie, was also advised not to travel because of her pregnancy.
A friend reportedly said: "Meghan said her main concern right now is supporting Harry. She said she left it up to him as to whether or not she would attend the funeral.
"Meghan said it's during these times when family should come together, put their differences aside and unite as one. She said this is what Prince Philip would want and that she's willing to forgive and move forward."
Meghan's pal reportedly added that the duchess's mum Doria was "adamant" that she avoided travel during her pregnancy.
The friend reportedly said: "Doria insisted that Meghan stay behind and support Harry from afar.
"Like Harry, Doria is very protective of Meghan and doesn't want to see her putting her own health at risk. Stress is the last thing Meghan needs right now.
"Meghan said attending or not attending Prince Philip's funeral isn't going to change her relationship with the Queen.
"She said the Queen understands her absence and would want her to stay safe and healthy for the baby.
"Meghan said this is the opportune time for Henry to mend his relationship with his brother and his dad. She doesn't need to be there for that."
HARRY RETURNS
The Duke of Sussex was seen getting off a British Airways flight from Los Angeles that arrived at Heathrow at 1.15pm yesterday.
He was put into a black Range Rover and whisked away.
Sources had earlier confirmed he was due back imminently to quarantine in time for the Duke of Edinburgh’s farewell at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, on Saturday.
He is currently staying at Frogmore Cottage.
Harry, sixth in line to the throne, was at his £11million Montecito mansion when he was told the news of Prince Philip’s death on Friday morning.
Today, he paid tribute to his ";witty" grandfather Philip - remembering the duke as the "master of the barbecue and legend of banter".
Harry said Philip was "cheeky 'til the end" and "authentically himself" throughout his more than 70 years of service to the nation.
And he thanked the dedicated royal for being a "rock" to his grandmother the Queen - just minutes after his brother William also paid tribute.
Prince Harry said: "He was authentically himself, with a seriously sharp wit, and could hold the attention of any room due to his charm - and also because you never knew what he might say next.
"He will be remembered as the longest reigning consort to the Monarch, a decorated serviceman, a Prince and a Duke.
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"But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right 'til the end.
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"He has been a rock for Her Majesty The Queen with unparalleled devotion, by her side for 73 years of marriage, and while I could go on, I know that right now he woudl say to all of us, beer in hand, 'Oh do get on with it!'
"So on that note, Grandpa, thank you for your service, your dedication to Granny, and for always being yourself."
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Royal biographer Penny Junor says Prince Harry 'created a lot of hurt' but Prince Philip's funeral is a chance for he and Prince William to 'come together'
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