King Charles is “hurt” at not being able to see Archie and Lilibet at Christmas, a royal commentator has claimed.
The monarch, who is believed to have only met Lilibet once, is set for another festive period without seeing his grandchildren.
Speaking on GB News, ex-BBC royal reporter Michael Cole branded the Duke and Duchess’s decision to keep Charles apart from his grandchildren “appalling”.
“Christmas is supposed to be a time for families to come together”, he said.
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“Obviously, the Duke and the Duchess of Sussex didn’t get the memo because they will not be taking part.
“I must spare a word for King Charles. It must be very hurtful for him that he doesn’t see his grandchildren in California, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
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Meghan and Harry are expected to spend Christmas in the US
PA“That is appalling. I think ordinary families really ought to try and come together at Christmas time.
“If they love each other, the best way you can demonstrate love is by showing it in real terms, that’s reaching out, making the apologies, showing the contrition that’s necessary.”
Instead of spending time with Archie and Lilibet, King Charles and Queen Camilla will attend the morning service at Sandringham Church on Christmas Day.
The royals will exchange gifts on Christmas Eve as per tradition.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not expected to make the trip across the pond for Christmas, instead enjoying the occasion at their Montecito mansion.
Meghan and Harry are not breaking recent tradition with this decision, as this has been the case over the last three Christmas periods.
In an apparently olive branch, Harry rang King Charles on his 75th birthday in November.
Meghan Markle also spoke to the King over the phone.
It comes amid suggestions Charles has risked the wrath of royal staffers by adding more family members to the guest list.
According to the Mail, Queen Camilla’s children and grandchildren will be with the Royal Family for the festive period.
Staff have therefore been asked to give up their rooms to accommodate the visitors and move to small quarters.