Christmas morning in the UK saw the King lead the royal family’s traditional walk to church from his home of Sandringham in Norfolk, eastern England, with some familiar faces on display.
Included in the family outing was his brother Prince Andrew – seemingly back in the royal fold for private events, even if his public role remains on hold, following his friendships with the late Jeffrey Epstein and the jailed Ghislaine Maxwell, and the hashed non-apology the prince made for both in a TV interview. With more papers detailing the late shamed sex trafficker’s associates set to be released in January, speculation continues in the UK press as to whether Andrew’s name will once again resurface and his PR nightmare continue into another year.
At Andrew’s side on Christmas morning was his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, accompanying the royal family to the festive church service for the first time in more than 30 years. The couple divorced in 1996, but have remained close, sharing a home and often seen with their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie.
Later on Christmas Day, King Charles called for conservation of the planet and peace for all in his second festive Christmas broadcast to the nation.
Charles said:
“In the Christmas story – angels brought the message of hope first to shepherds. These were people who lived simply among God’s creatures; those close to nature were privileged that night.
“We can do all in our power to protect each other. The words of Jesus seem more relevant than ever: do unto others as they would do unto you… It’s a reminder to us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbours.”
Charles said his message went out to “those caring for our common home, and those seeking the good in others. This way we bring out the best in ourselves.
“I wish you a Christmas of peace on earth and goodwill to all, today and always.”
While the King’s 10-minute broadcast included footage of members of the royal family at work, absent were his second son Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle. The royal family’s chasm between the two branches shows no sign of being bridged with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex spending the festive period overseas.
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