When he met Declan Bitmead – the 17-year-old winner of the inspirational young person 15-28 years award – Harry asked the youngster about his brother.
The Prince asked: “Does he drive you mad?
Could Prince Harry be ready to finally talk to King? Wayward Royal is set to return to UK
When Declan replied “no, we get on fine” Harry replied “you know what – siblings”.
And when told his brother went to the same school, Harry said: “You’re at the same school, that sometimes makes it more challenging.”
Hugo says that the strained relationship between the Prince and his brother, as well as with his father, can’t be repaired until he makes a big admission.
The expert says that, in order to get back in with the Royals, Harry will need to “apologise”.
Hugo said: “It would be in his, and everybody else’s, interests if somehow he could form some sort of personal reconciliation with his father.
“Because, we know even from Prince Harry’s book that his father said: ‘Don’t make my last years miserable.’
“And if something happens to the King and Prince Harry has not reconciled with him, then he’s going to be bearing more sort of guilt and remorse and things.
“And he’s got enough on his plate already with the death of his mother and the things that he feels about all that.
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Prince Harry has previously expressed a wish to return to the UK moreCredit: AFP
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However, Hugo thinks he needs to apologise to William and Charles firstCredit: Getty
“So in order for that to happen, he is the one who has to apologise. He is the one who has to give assurances.”
Harry’s current visit – set to last for four days – will be his longest since Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022.
The Prince previously lost his battle with the Home Office over the level of security he will be granted during visits to the UK.
That court battle reportedly cost Harry a staggering £1 million.
During the Prince’s current visit, King Charles III jetted back to London from his Scottish break.
The King had been in Balmoral for a month, with his return fuelling speculation that the pair could reunite after not seeing each other for 19 months.
However, Hugo says that there will always be “suspicion” over Harry’s return trips to the UK.
He said: “I suppose the suspicion is that, if he comes over here, he is sort of almost reestablishing himself as a member of the royal family.”
Hugo added: “But in the days when he was right in the middle of it and doing things, he was a very hardworking and successful member of the family.
“You know, putting in his bit for the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and all the things that he does.
“And, he was wearing fine uniforms and he looked like a prince.
“Latterly, of course, he’s just a guy in jeans with a backpack on his back.”
Now, Hugo says Harry can be seen “loitering in the background of one of Meghan Markle’s cooking sprees”.
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He marked the third anniversary of his grandmother’s, the late Queen Elizabeth II, death just eight miles away from where his brother was commemorating herCredit: AFP
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Yesterday, Harry attended an award ceremony for inspirational young peopleCredit: PA
Spotting a plant you think will look amazing in your garden – rushing out to buy it – and then realising that on its own it suddenly looks, well, a bit naff.
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Jamie Butterworth’s new book aims to give you perfect plant combinationsCredit: Dorling Kindersley/ Rachel Warne
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What Grows Together is out on September 11
But happily, a new book by Jamie Butterworth could be about to banish the embarrassment of a badly put together garden for good.
‘What Grows Together’ – which comes out next weekend – offers up over 60 ‘fail safe plant combinations for every garden’ with no confusing horticultural jargon or lecturing.
You may recognise Jamie from his RHS Show Feature Dog Garden at Chelsea Flower Show this year – which he created alongside Monty Don and DJ Jo Whiley.
He’s appeared many times on Gardeners World, and cites Monty Don as the gardener who inspired him to get into horticulture.
His nursery Form Plants also supplies plants to Windsor Castle – and when he met King Charles at Chelsea Flower Show, the King said: ‘I know Jamie — you are delivering plants to me on Wednesday. Please don’t be late.’”
But it was another famous Jamie that actually inspired his book. “I love cooking, but I never know what ingredients to put together as to what will taste nice,” he told Sun gardening.
“But when I came across Jamie Oliver’s Five Ingredients Book – where he just goes – take these ingredients and do this and this is what you’ll get, it was just brilliant. It was exactly what I needed.
“I just thought – we need to do this for gardening. We’ve even laid it out like a recipe book – in terms of making it look really crisp and simple – it’s like no other gardening book that’s ever been written.
“There’s so much synergy between cooking and gardening – people want to garden, they want to have nice gardens but they’re time poor and they don’t know what to plant that will a. Survive and b. look good, and that was the starting premise of the book.
“We’re forever learning with plants – my particular passion is growing plants, putting them together and making nice displays – it’s how I like to make people happy.
5 garden buys which make it instantly look posh
“It’s about getting rid of the old gardening rules – the ‘you must do this, you must do that, you must plant carrots at this exact time or everything will fail.
“What I wanted to do was make growing more accessible – there is no right way – but learning even just a few combinations and what will grow well together – then that gives people confidence to have a go themselves.”
“Jamie’s an idol of mine – and I want to make gardening as accessible as he did for cooking.
“You pay garden designers hundreds of pounds to tell you where to put plants – hopefully this book will negate all of that and give people the accessibility they need to go ‘oh actually this is what I need to do’ and it’s that simple.”
JAMIES’ FAVOURITE COMBINATIONS
COMBINATION ONE Hydrangeas Limelight and Agastache Blackadder – both plants individually are brilliant and will flower for a long long time each – Hydrangeas from June to Autumn and even once they’ve finished flowering they’ll hold their seed heads and look great in the winter. Agastache Blackadder is a perennial and has dark purple liquorice flowers and if you plant the two together the darkness of the Agastache looks brilliant against the white of the hydrangea – but will also grow up through it. If you want to add to it – just add in some yellow Cosmos.
COMBINATION 2 Calycanthus ‘Aphrodite’, Japanese Forest Grass, Penstemon ‘Pensham Plum Jerkum’ Calycanthus has really rich ruby wine red flowers which look stunning in their own right. It flowers from late May through to September/October, leg it up by taking off lower branches – then you’ve got a specimen rather than just a shrub – and underplant with Hakonechloa Macra – AKA Japanese forest grass and the Penstemon with dark rich ruby colour flowers the same as the calycanthus. Individually they’re great plants – but put together that’s an incredible combination.
What Grows Together: Fail-safe Plant Combinations for Every Garden by Jamie Butterworth (11 September, DK)
Also in Veronica’s Column this week…
News, top tips, Plant of the Week and a competition to win two hedge trimmers
NEWS! Catherine’s Rose is finally available to buy on the high street – with B&Q taking the honours as the main bricks and mortar stockist. Named after HRH Princess Kate, and launching in store at the end of this month, funds from every sale will go to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. The pink ‘Catherine’s Rose’, which is scented, was developed by Harkness Roses – and in May we ran a competition for Sun Readers to become the first in the world to own a rose. Now everyone can get one from their local B&Q.. The RHS and Harkness joined forces with Kate after she underwent a “very spiritual and very intense emotional reconnection” with nature after undergoing treatment for cancer. The princess announced in January she was in remission after completing a course of preventative chemotherapy.
WIN! WIn one of two Webb ECO 20V 15cm Cordless Mini Chainsaw/Pruning Saws with Telescopic Pole Reach PLUS battery – worth £124.99 each. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/WebbPruner or write to Sun Webb Pruner competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. September 20, 2025. T&Cs apply
PLANT OF THE WEEK!Heuchera Berry Timeless is evergreen and will still be sending up sprays of pale pink flowers well into September. It’s heat resistant and hardy – and doesn’t seem fussy about soil or shade or too much sun.
JOB OF THE WEEK! You can start with your onion sets now – to overwinter and get a bountiful crop next year. Red Winter is a great one to get in the ground. Potatoes and raspberries are ready to harvest and sweetpeas can be sown under cover.
TOP TIP! IF you fancy growing your own salad leaves over Winter – now is the time to start. Lambs Lettuce is very hardy and perfect for Winter Gardens. Get the seeds in the soil now – either in pockets you know are milder – or in a cold frame. The best thing about sowing rocket is that you’ll get your first crop with four to six weeks – and it also thrives in cooler temperatures. If you plant Arctic Spring butterhead lettuce now – you’ll get a crop early next year. But also keep an eye out in garden centres, as they often sell a ‘Winter Mix’. Sarah Raven currently has one that includes ‘Can Can’, ‘Salad Bowl’ and ‘Merveille de Quatre Saisons.’
NEWS!Harrogate Autumn Flower Show is taking place from September 19th to 21st. As well as the usual floral marquees – there’s an Incredible Edible pavilion showcasing the best fruit and vegetables – as well as the giant versions – including a National Onion Championship. Plus talks, live demonstrations, expert gardening advice and competitions. And there’s a plant creche so you don’t have to carry your purchases round all day.
THERE are fears for a Thai princess after the royal palace shared a concerning health update following her three-year-long coma battle.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn, is said to have developed a severe infection.
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Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol waves to supporters from inside a car as they arrive at the Grand Palace for a Buddhist ceremonyCredit: EPA
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Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn stands with his familyCredit: AFP
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She is a known fitness enthusiastCredit: Reuters
The 46-year-old, affectionately known as Princess Bha, collapsed in December, 2022, while training her dogs in Nakhon Ratchasima, northeast of Bangkok.
She has been in a coma ever since.
The Bureau of the Royal Household gave the first update on her condition in more than two years on Friday, saying she had suffered a “severe” blood infection.
The palace said in a following update that a team of doctors were closely monitoring her situation.
It read: “The medical team said that she remains in a state of low blood pressure, requiring continuous treatment.
“Doctors are administering medication to stabilise her blood pressure, along with medical equipment and antibiotics to support kidney function and breathing.”
Over the years, some reports have suggested her health condition is far more serious than the palace is letting on.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha was training her dogs at a working dog championship organised by the Thaiarmy when she collapsed.
Paramedics rushed her to a nearby hospital before a helicopter took her to Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn health facility.
Bajrakitiyabha is the daughter of the king’s first wife, Princess Soamsawali.
Tragedy Strikes: German Prince Harald von Hohenzollern Dies in Africa
She has been part of her father’s inner circle since he came to the throne in 2016 and is a senior officer in the king’s personal guard.
The fitness enthusiast is widely viewed as the most suitable successor for her father, who turned 70 this year.
She has post-graduate law degrees from two US universities and has long called for prison reforms in Thailand.
She was also the Thai ambassador to Austria between 2012 and 2014.
The 73-year-old king, who has seven children from four marriages, has not announced his chosen heir.
Though succession rules in Thailand favour men.
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Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol wave to supporters on arrival at the Grand Palace in BangkokCredit: AFP
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Well-wishers bow in front of an image of Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol at Chulalongkorn Hospital in BangkokCredit: AFP
MEGHAN Markle’s heavily criticised Netflix show has been renewed for a second season as a new trailer dropped.
Footage showed the Duchess of Sussex alongside a host of famous guests ahead of the release of the second series of With Love, Meghan on August 26.
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Meghan Markle in the trailer for the second season of her show With Love, MeghanCredit: Instagram
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A number of stars are due to join the Duchess of Sussex in the new series
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The first season aired on Netflix in March, with the new series set to land on August 26Credit: Netflix
The first season of Meghan’s eight-part Netflix show saw her bee-keeping, making homemade candles and cooking with celeb pals, including Mindy Kaling and make-up artist Daniel Martin.
Now, the show’s second series promises to be “fun and heartwarming” as a plethora of celebrity guests are due to make their appearance.
This includes stars Chrissy Teigen, Christina Tosi, Jamie Kern Lima, and Tan France.
Describing the new season, Netflix said: “Meghan returns with a fun and heartwarming new season, welcoming celebrity chefs, talented artists, and beloved friends for hands-on adventures filled with laughter and discovery.
“From playful cooking challenges to DIY projects, Meghan and her guests explore bold flavors, experiment with new techniques, and discover simple ways to add beauty to everyday life.
“It’s all about embracing playfulness over perfection and finding joy in creating together.”
Meghan can be seen laughing alongside guests at her Montecito home in the trailer, even joking at the end about Prince Harry’s lack of love for lobster.
Speaking to Chef Andrés, she says: “You know who doesn’t like lobster? My husband.”
In response, the chef light-heartedly retorts: “And you married him anyway?”
They had secured a lucrative five-year contract – thought to be worth more than $100 million (£74 million) – with Netflix after quitting as senior working royals in 2020.
However, this new deal has been signed for “much less”, an insider told Page Six.
Meghan and Harry’s Netflix deal is extended as ‘special’ Christmas episode of cooking show & new documentary announced
Meghan said in a statement: “We’re proud to extend our partnership with Netflix and expand our work together to include the As Ever brand.
“My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision.”
Netflix will only pay for projects they want to screen, rather than pay in a single multi-million pound agreement like the one signed in 2020, The Sun understands.
The Sun can also reveal, however, that the streaming giants will cover Archewell Productions’s overheads, including all costs for its offices and staff.
The new deal was also described as a “downgrade” by PR expert Mark Borkowski.
He told the Mail: “I think Netflix has done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver, and they’ve taken that deal off the table, and they’ve given them a modest one.
“It’s not like they’re gradually uncoupling – it’s a downgrade. Netflix are not going to expose themselves to those budgets again. It’s Netflix saying, ‘Let’s have a look at your content, but we’ll pick and choose, mate’.”
‘Meghan & Harry need to come up with a hit soon’
By Matt Wilkinson
JUST when you thought it was safe to turn the telly on again… Harry and Meghan are back. And their multi-year renewal with Netflix means they are not going away anytime soon.
There have been tense negotiations in recent weeks but Netflix is so deeply involved with Meghan’s As Ever brand it was always likely that the streaming giants would want them back.
Make no mistake, Harry and Meghan would have been desperate for the deal to be renewed. They will likely be opening a bottle or two of As Ever Rose in Montecito.
Because they have invested heavily in Archewell Productions and getting on board with Netflix is central not only to their post-Royal endeavours but more importantly crucial to their bank accounts.
If they lost their Netflix money then how could they afford their life in the US?
While the length of the deal or how much the couple are getting paid is vague we do know that Meghan will appear in a ‘holiday special’ in December that will likely clash with the Princess of Wales’s annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey.
And finally, two years after I revealed in The Sun the couple had bought the rights to the book Meet Me At The Lake, production is in active development.
Sources close to the couple are coy about whether Harry or Meghan will appear on screen for the production of Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within which will air later this year.
But perhaps the best piece of news from the announcement is no repeat of the six-part documentary which dumped on the Royal Family.
However, ‘Harry & Meghan’ was a ratings dream and none of their projects since have been anywhere as successful. They need to come up with a hit soon.
And this ‘first look’ deal means Netflix has the first option on new projects from the couple without any guaranteed commitment.
But remember the Sussexes are not the only Royals to be in bed with Netflix.
The King will feature in a documentary on The King’s Foundation with Idris Elba.
“Join Meghan in Montecito for a magical holiday celebration,” the announcement read.
“Together, friends and family deck the halls, create holiday feasts, craft heartfelt gifts, and share lots of laughs – with simple how-tos to follow at home. It’s a holiday wonder with warmth, tradition, and a generous dose of joy.”
The couple will also release a short film called “Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within” which will look at Uganda’s Masaka region and the HIV/AIDS crisis there.
She famously shook the hand of a man suffering with the illness without gloves, publicly challenging the idea that HIV/Aids was passed from person to person by touch.
There is also “active development” on other projects with Netflix which “span a variety of content genres”, including a feature adaptation of the bestselling romantic novel by Carley Fortune, Meet Me At The Lake.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, said: “Harry and Meghan are influential voices whose stories resonate with audiences everywhere.
“The response to their work speaks for itself — Harry & Meghan gave viewers an intimate look into their lives and quickly became one of our most-watched documentary series.
“More recently, fans have been inspired by With Love, Meghan, with products from the new As Ever line consistently selling out in record time.
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Archewell Productions and to entertain our members together.”
But it was also understood that bosses were mildly infuriated by Meghan making her As Ever brand a priority.
The With Love, Meghan viewing figures have reportedly been “dismal”.
Lifestyle and cookery show With Love, Meghan only ranked at number 383 in Netflix’s six-monthly engagement report this year, with just 5.3million viewers across the globe.
Described by one critic as an “exercise in narcissism”, it was beaten by reruns of the first four seasons of legal drama Suits, which also starred the Duchess in her pre-royal days.
Once judged by some as Britain’s greatest soft power asset since Princess Diana, Meghan was filmed for her show making ladybird-shaped canapes from cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
In truth, the show is a smash hit compared to her husband’s vanity docuseries Polo, blasted as “a dull indulgence about a rich person’s pursuit”.
In the first six months of the year the programme attracted a disastrous 500,000 views globally, ranking it at number 3,442 out of around 7,000 shows.
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The Duchess of Sussex’s show previously featured husband Prince Harry and some celeb pals, including Mindy KalingCredit: Netflix
The Duke of Sussex cut a lonely figure at a huge family event without his wife Meghan Markle, and now a lip reader has uncovered the tense conversation he had with his royal ally
Prince Harry opened up to Princess Eugenie in a tense moment, according to a lip reader(Image: Andy Rain/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Prince Harry has made it clear just how desperate he is to heal his fractured bond with King Charles and the rest of The Firm, but a hidden whisper to a royal ally might come back to haunt him.
A secret peace summit between senior aides representing both Charles and his estranged son caused shockwaves last week as the pair seemingly edged closer to reconcilliation.
The meeting came a mere few months after a BBC bombshell interview where the Duke claimed that his father “won’t speak to him” due to his bitter legal battle over the level of security he is entitled to while in the UK.
Addressing the years-long fall-out with his family, Harry said: “There is no point in continuing to fight anymore, life is precious.” In a move that likely shocked the Palace, the Duke said “I don’t know how much longer my father has,” in reference to Charles’ cancer diagnosis.
Prince Harry wants to reconcile with his father King Charles
The prince said that “some members of my family will never forgive me” for writing his explosive memoir Spare, but then added: “It would be nice to have that reconciliation part now. If they don’t want that, that’s entirely up to them.”
While Harry says he is “ready to forgive,” he anger seemed palpabale at his father’s Coronation, according to a lip reader who has uncovered a painful exchange between Harry and his cousin and longtime royal ally, Princess Eugenie.
A new Channel 5 show, Lip-Reading The Royals: The Secret Conversations, which airs tonight, has decoded numerous royal conversations at major events, and the prince wasn’t spared.
Prince Harry attended his father’s Coronation alone(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Harry cut a lonely figure on the steps of Westminster Abbey at his father’s Coronation ceremony in 2023, as he returned to home soil without his wife Meghan and children. As his relatives all gathered together in the congregation at the end of the event, it was clear tensions remained high.
The Duke then walked over to Eugenie, one of the few royals he’s remained close to, and according to a lip reader, complained: “I’ve spent five hours with my dad in his office and not a friendly text from either”.
Harry seemingly confided in Eugenie at the event(Image: Toby Melville – WPA Pool/Getty Images)
It’s not clear who hasn’t texted Harry – whether it’s Charles and Camilla, or William and Kate – but the Duke seemingly hasn’t spoken to his brother in years.
The lip reader claims that he then asks “Why hasn’t anybody contacted me?” and Eugenie responds with a sympathetic but cautious smile.
The couple was joined in the Abbey by the entire royal family, including the late Queen Elizabeth to honour fallen servicemen and women, and to mark the Centenary of the Armistice.
Prince Harry reportedly hasn’t spoken to his brother Prince William in years(Image: Getty Images)
Lip reading expert Nicola Hickling decoded the conversation for the programme, as she claimed Meghan instructed Harry to “take advantage of the situation”, before she turned to look around at the sea of royals that surrounded them.
She says Harry responded to her comment by asking: “Today?”, as Meghan added: “Do it tonight.” Then, Harry poses a question to Meghan, asking: “You do realise that this is the end?” as Meghan responds: “Yeah, I do know”.
It is then suggested by royal historian Dr Tessa Dunlop that the seemingly private comments between the Sussexes could mean that the couple had been plotting their dramatic exit from the royal family years before they actually decided to call it quits.
Lip-Reading The Royals: The Secret Conversations airs on Saturday at 7pm on Channel 5.
Kate Middleton looked emotional at the Wimbledon Centre Court reception as she made a rare public appearance for the Women’s Final
12:02, 13 Jul 2025Updated 12:03, 13 Jul 2025
Kate Middleton was looking radiant at Wimbledon 2025(Image: Getty)
Kate Middleton was given a standing ovation as she returned to Centre Court for the Ladies’ Singles Wimbledon Final on Saturday.
The Princess of Wales‘ emotional arrival into the Royal Box comes after she has scaled back her public appearances since revealing her cancer diagnosis last year.
Kate looked radiant as she made her entrance, dressed in a chic yellow dress with a pleated skirt and belted waist. Eagle-eyed fans will have noticed a stand-out bow accessory pinned to Kate’s dress. Prince William’s wife has been seen wearing the small dark green and purple bow attached below her shoulder at the sporting event in previous years.
Kate Middleton attends day thirteen of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships on July 12, 2025(Image: Getty)
But fans may not know the special reason for the fashion statement.
Kate is the patron of the AELTC, which conducts the day-to-day operations of The Championships and has been since 2016. The club made green and purple the official colours back in 1909. Kate first made the sartorial show of support in 2017 and has worn the same garment to the sporting event ever since.
The princess, who is the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, attended the final of the Women’s competition where Iga Swiatek beat Amanda Asiminova 6-0, 6-0.
Other VIPs lucky enough to get a seat in the royal box included former long-distance runner Mo Farah and former US world tennis No1 Billie Jean King.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, presents Amanda Anisimova of United States with the Ladies’ Singles runner up trophy
Kate later presented the trophy to Swiatek. She also had some kind words for Anisimova who burst into tears after the match.
Anisimova was the first women’s singles finalist not to win a game for more than a century, going back to 1911.
Revealing details of her conversation with Kate, she said after the trophy ceremony: “It was such an honour to meet her,” Anisimova said. “I wasn’t sure if she was going to come out today, if she was going be there, so it was just really nice to see her. She definitely had a few things to say that were making me emotional again! But she was really kind, and she told me to keep my head high.
“I don’t really want to reveal everything she said to me, but I also spoke to her again after the match, because I passed by her, and she had all the best to say to me. So I guess it was a positive of today, and I can try and focus on that and not the match.”
Kate returned to public duties on July 2 with a visit to a hospital’s well-being garden, where she spoke candidly about her cancer recovery. She said, “You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment, treatments done, then it’s like, “I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.”
The visit marked her first appearance since missing Royal Ascot on June 18.
President Macron has arrived in the UK ahead of a state banquet at Windsor CastleCredit: Sky News
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His wife Brigitte rejected his offer of a helping hand descending the planeCredit: Sky News
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It comes after a video seemingly showed Brigitte pushing her husband earlier this yearCredit: Sky News
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Body language expert Judi James described Macron’s behaviour as overly familiarCredit: Sky News
Emmanuel and his wife Brigitte have arrived in the UK ahead of tonight’s state banquet at Windsor Castle.
However, footage of the pair arriving suggests there could be tension between them according to body language expert Judi James.
After Emmanuel is safely on solid ground, he turns around to offer his arm to his wife as she descends the stairs from the plane.
Yet Brigitte refuses Emmanuel’s gesture, leaving him awkwardly holding his arm in mid-air.
The pair then begin to greet members of the Royal Family who have been awaiting their arrival.
Judi said: “Macron appeared determined to take a joyfully tactile approach to everyone he met today, with exception of his wife.
She added that Brigitte looked “less charmed by her husband’s attempts at a more tactile approach, refusing his offer of a hand to help as she stepped down from the plane”.
While Brigitte does smile at her husband once she’s by his side, the couple quickly begin greeting their hosts.
Judi said: “His greeting ritual for William was almost intimate enough to suggest he was family.
Kate & William welcome Macron for first UK state visit in 17 years – as thousands gear up for Windsor carriage ride
“He clasped William’s hand for several long seconds, using his left hand to perform a volley of add-on pats and clasps as he did so, each one suggesting close bonding and familiarity.”
After placing his hand over William’s, he then moves it to the prince’s lower arm.
This “intensified the familiarity signals” according to Judi, as Emmanuel moves his hand above William’s elbow before moving it back down to the lower arm.
Emmanuel then moves on to greet Kate, while Brigitte in turn greets William.
In a “creakingly out of date ritual” according to Judi, Emmanuel leans down to kiss the back of Kate’s hand.
Judi said: “This gesture looks gallant but it leaves the woman being kissed with little option but to giggle prettily.”
While Emmanuel leaned down to kiss Kate’s hand, Charles instead raises Brigitte’s hand to his lips, as he “gazes adoringly” Judi said.
Calling back to the rumoured Vietnam slap, Judi said: “Was this the hand she shoved her husband with back in Vietnam?
“If so, Charles was clearly busy charming it into submission.”
In a similarly familial gesture, Emmanuel went on to pat Charles’ upper arm “in a gesture of macho unity”.
The procession precedes tonight’s state banquet in which 160 guests will dine at Windsor Castle to celebrate the relationship between France and Britain.
Princess Kate and Prince William will both be in attendance for the fabulous event.
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Macron leaned over to kiss Kate’s hand in an outdated gestureCredit: Sky News
Monica Vinader has added even more styles to their summer sale with up to 60% off necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets and more
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Kate Middleton wearing the Monica Vinader Siren Wire Earrings(Image: Monica Vinader)
Monica Vinader, the popular jewellery brand favoured by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and royalty including the Princess of Wales, has reduced prices further on its website, with up to 60% off summer picks. Known for being one of the more affordable accessory retailers, you can now pick up Monica Vinader pieces at a reduced price.
With over 600 pieces of Monica Vinader jewellery to choose from, including stackable rings, personalised necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more, prices now start at £14. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself or a loved one to something sparkly for less.
Shoppers on the hunt for a versatile pair of earrings perfect for daily wear, the Siren Mini Domed Huggies are down from £60 to £39. Constructed from 18K gold vermeil, one customer said: “Such a beautiful, classy, comfy everyday hoop, which I never need to take out to sleep. Would highly recommend, particularly for the price.”
However, not everyone is satisfied with the size and another person expressed their surprise at the compactness, noting they were ‘shocked at how small they were’. For those considering a present, the Linear Disc Friendship Bracelet could be an ideal pick. Discounted from its regular £99 to £64.25 thanks to the sale offering 35% off – it’s available in various finishes.
A delighted shopper left a review saying: “Small delicate charm bracelet that would make a lovely gift. Simple style that can be easily layered up with other pieces. Easy to fasten on your own too. Also come in a cute little gift box if you were purchasing as a present.”
Yet someone else commented on the difficulty of fastening, stating: “Can be a little tricky to tighten and loosen, couldn’t get over my big hands to start with, may need to utilise a friend to help but makes it more secure.”
Kate Middleton wearing Monica Vinader Nura Pearl Necklace (Image: Getty)
Missoma is also running an up to 50% off summer sale. Pearls are featured in the sale, with the Savi Seed Pear Bracelet reduced by 26%. The limited edition bracelet is a ‘cute and elegant piece’, discounted to £73 down from £98.
Love Island fans are in luck as the exact necklace Samie Elishi wore on the show is finally back in stock. Called the San Pietro necklace by Soru, the £270 piece ‘goes with anything and stands out’.
For a splash of colour, take a look at the Monica Vinader Siren Stacking Ring. With a variety of stones and metal finishes on offer at different price points, one standout is the 18K gold vermeil with amazonite, reduced from £80 to £48.
Perfect for layering with other pieces, one happy customer wrote: “I bought this for my friend for her 40th birthday. It looks so stunning! I’m so pleased with it, and she loves it too.” You can browse the full Monica Vinader summer sale online.
Prince William said watching humans destroy our oceans was ‘simply heartbreaking’ as he urged world leaders to act
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Prince William meets France’s President Emmanuel MacronCredit: Reuters
The prince, whose opening and closing remarks were in French, said those attending were “united by our deep connection to the ocean and our concern for its safety”.
William, in navy suit with a recycled sustainable tie from Wilmok, said the clock was ticking on meeting the target agreed at the 2022 UN Biodiversity Summit aiming to protect at least 30 per cent of the world’s land and sea by 2030.
Speaking at the heads of state and government session on the forum’s final day, the prince added: “Watching human activity reduce beautiful sea forests to barren deserts at the base of our oceans is simply heartbreaking.
“For the future of our planet, for the future generations, we must listen to the words of Sir David Attenborough: ‘If we save the sea, we save our world’.
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“I call on all of you to think big in your actions.”
World leaders were greeted by a blue carpet as they arrived at the event, with William chatting with Mr Macron and other dignitaries.
Addressing an audience of 1,800, William said: “Rising sea temperatures, plastic pollution and overfishing are putting pressure on fragile ecosystems.
“What once seemed an abundant resource is diminishing before our eyes.
“We all stand to be impacted. And we are all responsible for change — both negative and positive.
“But there remains time to turn this tide.”
Wills jokes ‘families can be a mixed bag – some of them might not want to see you much’
Later, William said he went through a range of emotions when he saw Sir David’s new Ocean film.
He told Enric Sala, who worked on the film: “I got angry, then sad, then I got frustrated, then I got happy.”
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A RARE mourning ring commissioned by King George IV has been found in a charity shop – and snapped up for just £15.
The gold band, engraved with the touching words “Remember me”, was created to honour the death of Princess Amelia, youngest daughter of King George III.
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A rare royal mourning ring worth thousands of pounds which is up for auction after being bought from a charity shop in Leicester for just £15Credit: PA
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A matching mourning ring was later bought by Queen Mary in 1935. Back in 1810, each ring cost 58 shillings to makeCredit: PA
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Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “It’s the most important charity shop find I’ve heard about in a decade.”Credit: PA
The historic piece was discovered in a charity shop in Leicester and is now set to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers, where it could fetch between £3,000 and £5,000.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “It’s the most important charity shop find I’ve heard about in a decade.”
The unsuspecting buyer had picked up the ring from a local shop, unaware of its royal connection.
Mr Hanson recalled: “I was stunned and dazzled. From a simple box emerged a piece of deeply personal Royal history – commissioned by the Royal family itself to honour a lost loved one.”
Princess Amelia was born on 7 August 1783 and died aged 27 in 1810 after a long battle with tuberculosis.
Her death is thought to have devastated King George III, accelerating his mental decline. She was believed to be his favourite child.
The ring, crafted by top royal jewellers Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, was one of only 52 made on the orders of the Prince Regent – who later became King George IV.
They were handed out to close family and friends after her funeral in Windsor.
“The white enamel used in the ring denotes that Amelia was unmarried at the time of her death,” Mr Hanson said.
“White enamel symbolised purity and innocence in mourning jewellery, particularly for those who died young or unmarried.
The Enchanting Jewels of Princess Diana: A Royal Legacy Unveiled
“It contrasts with the more commonly used black enamel, which signified general mourning.”
In a final act of love, Princess Amelia is said to have pressed a ring containing a lock of her hair into her father’s hand as she lay dying, whispering the words now inscribed on the newly discovered ring – “remember me”.
A matching mourning ring was later bought by Queen Mary in 1935. Back in 1810, each ring cost 58 shillings to make.
“This find proves treasures still lie hidden on our high streets,” said Mr Hanson.
“It’s not just the monetary value – it’s the emotion, history and humanity behind this ring that truly moves you.”
Experts believe the ring could attract international interest when it goes under the hammer, thanks to its royal provenance and remarkable condition.
Collectors of royal memorabilia are expected to watch the auction closely.
Jewellery historian Alexandra Michell said: “It’s incredibly rare to find such a piece outside of established collections.
“Mourning jewellery from this era, especially tied to a royal figure, is both historically and emotionally valuable.”
The ring has now been placed in secure storage until its auction day to ensure its protection.
It will feature as a highlight item in Hansons’ Summer Fine Art Jewellery Auction.
The auction will take place on 12 June 2025, and bids are expected to come in from across the UK and abroad.
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The ring, crafted by top royal jewellers Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, was one of only 52 made on the orders of the Prince RegentCredit: Getty – Contributor
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The historic piece was discovered in a charity shop in Leicester and is now set to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers,Credit: De Agostini – Getty
FORGET Game of Thrones, nobody understands the art of forming alliances better than Meghan Markle – but her latest friendship might just be her most fruitful yet.
As the saying goes, the enemy of my enemy is my friend… and having been blacklisted by David and Victoria Beckham, she and Harry have now made their allegiances very clear, while also bolstering their own “cool” social standing in the process.
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Brooklyn and Nicola are hot property – with a combined Instagram following of over 19million between themCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
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Harry and Meghan have been upping their public appearances – and packing on the PDA – amid her reinvention as a lifestyle queen
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David and Victoria Beckham have reportedly been blindsided by the new Peltz-Beckham and Sussex allianceCredit: David Beckham/Instagram
After all, it’s no secret that Meghan is making every concerted effort right now to re-establish herself as a lifestyle guru and online influencer.
Since launching her lifestyle brand, As Ever, last month, she’s upped her output on social media in a bid to cement herself as the ultimate domestic goddess and yummy mummy.
Having the endorsement of the Beckham-Peltzes – who have a massive social media following between them and are hot property right now, thanks to all the whispers circulating about tensions with Brooklyn’s family – would only help her cause.
What’s more, having seen their friendships with the likes of George and Amal Clooney, Oprah Winfrey and Brooklyn’s parents, David and Victoria Beckham, fall flat, Meghan and Harry can use all the star power they can get right now.
As the Sun exclusively revealed this week, the Sussexes and the Peltz-Beckhams came together last week at a dinner at the Sussexes’ mansion in Montecito, California.
The VIP event, which included 18 other guests, had been planned for weeks – but its timing, just days after Brooklyn and Nicola skipped his dad David’s 50th birthday celebrations amid a very public fall-out, was significant.
According to insiders, the two couples “found a lot of common ground” – as Harry and Meghan lent an empathetic ear, and shared their own tales of battle with Harry’s family.
As far as they are concerned, they’ve both been treated unfairly, prompting their estrangements.
And in the aftermath, the two couples have potentially formed a powerful alliance.
This may be an unlikely quartet, but it might just be a friendship that pays dividends.
Prince Harry & Meghan’s secret mansion summit with Brooklyn Beckham & Nicola Peltz to share trauma of toxic family feuds
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Meghan – pictured starring in her Netflix lifestyle series With Love, Meghan – has relaunched herself as a domestic goddessCredit: Netflix
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Meghan’s been showing more snippets of her home life – including snaps with her and Harry’s kids, Archie, six, and Lilibet, three – in her bid to be the ultimate yummy mummyCredit: Instagram
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Having Gen Z stars Nicola and Brooklyn on side would potentially open her up to an even bigger audienceCredit: Instagram
Speaking exclusively to The Sun, brand and culture expert Nick Ede believes Meghan is well aware of the benefits that come from this new foursome.
“Meghan is a very strategic player,” he tells us. “She knows how to maximise her influence by associating herself with those who have more than her.
“This move is positioning her away from old Hollywood stars who have already established themselves, like Oprah and the Clooneys, and it’s bringing new blood into the Montecito establishment.”
He adds: “No one saw this friendship coming, but Meghan really looks like she’s creating a new ‘Fab Four’ with Harry, Brooklyn and Nicola.”
Fab Four
Let’s not forget, this isn’t the first time the Sussexes have attempted to form a solid quartet.
Since then the Sussexes haven’t held back in airing their grievances against the Waleses, most notably in Harry’s memoir Spare.
In it, the former senior royal alleged that his brother had physically attacked him amid their Megxit negotiations, and claimed that Kate had made Meghan cry before their wedding over a disagreement about Princess Charlotte’s flower girl dress.
These days the warring couples have reportedly cut all communication, and that ‘Fab Four’ alliance is splintered beyond repair.
‘Blacklisted’
Meanwhile, other A-list friendships have also fallen by the wayside.
Take George and Amal Clooney, who were proudly in attendance at Harry and Meghan’s 2018 wedding, and hosted them at their mansion in Lake Como soon after.
The two couples don’t seem to have spoken for years, and the Clooneys have made their indifference to the Sussexes known by snubbing them from several high-profile events they’ve hosted.
Likewise, fellow wedding attendees David and Victoria Beckham have also blacklisted their former friends.
No one saw this friendship coming, but Meghan really looks like she’s creating a new ‘Fab Four’ with Harry, Brooklyn and Nicola
Nick EdeBrand and culture expert
As we’ve reported, the two couples were historically close, and Meghan even wore a Victoria Beckham dress in her first post-Megxit appearance as a mark of respect to her famous friend.
But – after the couple accused Victoria of selling stories about them to the press – the lines of communication went dead.
The Beckhams duly switched their own allegiances to the royals, and have since been getting closer than ever to Harry’s estranged father and brother.
So, having been declared personae non gratae by the Beckhams, it seems as if all bets are off.
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George and Amal Clooney famously attended the Sussexes’ wedding in 2018Credit: Getty
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David and Victoria were also in attendance at St George’s Chapel in Windsor to watch the nuptialsCredit: Getty
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Shortly before they got married, Harry and Meghan banded together with Prince William and Kate Middleton to launch The Royal Foundation – and were duly dubbed the ‘Fab Four’Credit: PA:Press Association/PA Images
Raft of opportunities
With relations between David and Victoria and their eldest son Brooklyn reportedly at an all-time low, this Montecito dinner has made a very public statement indeed.
Yet this isn’t simply a case of trying to get back at the Beckhams.
For all intents and purposes, Brooklyn and Nicola’s friendship could hold the key to a raft of opportunities for Harry and Meghan at this critical juncture in their own lives.
To that end, she’s been sending out her homemade jams, and other products including shortbread biscuits and herbal teas, to friends including Kris Jenner and Chrissy Teigen, in the hope that they might plug them on their Instagram pages.
But so far, her connections haven’t quite paid off when it comes to promoting her business.
Indeed, one of the biggest complaints when it came to her Netflix series was that, while we know she’s enjoyed friendships with the likes of Priyanka Chopra, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams in the past, she didn’t deliver on serving up A-list cameos on camera.
Her biggest signing was Mindy Kaling, but even that interaction seemed awkward and not representative of a genuine friendship.
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Mindy Kaling appeared on the Netflix series With Love, MeghanCredit: Netflix
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Before renaming her brand As Ever, Meghan sent her American Riviera Orchard jam to famous friends, including Kris Jenner, in the hope that they’d plug the product onlineCredit: Instagram
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Serena Williams – pictured with husband Alexis Ohanian – was another famous friend who turned up to the Sussexes’ wedding, but seems to have distanced herself from the couple in recent timesCredit: AP:Associated Press
So, having Brooklyn, 26, and Nicola , 30 – who both have a massive social media standing – on side could be highly advantageous to Meghan’s brand and online popularity.
While Brooklyn, in particular, may be the butt of several jokes when it comes to his career as an online “chef”, there’s no denying that his fans love watching him cook up a storm on his social media.
The nepo baby now has a whopping 16.3million followers on his Instagram account – which eclipses Meghan’s following of 2.9million.
With that kind of popularity, Brooklyn’s endorsement of Meghan’s jam, and her brand in general, would be a big win for As Ever.
It’s time to build on her credibility and build an audience who are authentic and buy into her brand.
Nick Ede
What’s more, Brooklyn and Nicola bring a hip and fresh factor to this new dynamic.
The Clooneys and the Beckhams may be established and dynastic couples, but the Peltz-Beckhams represent the next gen of showbiz influencers.
This potential leverage among younger followers will not have escaped Meghan’s attention.
It’s worth noting that the Duchess of Sussex has already made attempts to broaden her showbiz squad.
Earlier this year, she gave an online shoutout to Billie Eilish, the ultimate Gen Z cool girl, after the latter helped her with a charitable endeavour.
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Harry and Meghan packed on the PDA at a recent Beyonce concert
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Having distanced themselves from the Sussexes, the Beckhams have since been ingratiating themselves with the Royal Family – even attending events at Buckingham PalaceCredit: PA
She and Harry also recently stepped out at Beyonce’s LA concert – packing on the PDA and later thanking the singer online for a very fun “date night”.
This new Meghan is one who wants to be perceived as laid back, personable and fun – countering claims made in the past year that she’s a “bully” and difficult to work with.
Having the endorsement of a young, cool couple like Brooklyn and Nicola at this time could be beneficial – and Meghan knows it.
Meanwhile for Harry, having Brooklyn on side, who – as a Brit abroad – represents a piece of home at a time when he remains largely estranged from his family, might just be the source of comfort he needs.
Building a business should be Meghan’s priority
Nick Ede
But, as Nick tells us, she shouldn’t rely on her A-list friendships to guarantee her brand’s future.
She may be hoping to garner attention, but – ultimately – consumers want high quality products, regardless of who’s endorsing them.
“Whether this is a good move for Meghan is something we will have to wait and see,” Nick says. “The As Ever brand is still in its early days, and so is her TV career as a lifestyle expert.
“It’s time to build on her credibility and build an audience who are authentic and buy into her brand.
“Building a business should be her priority – this relationship may just serve as a distraction, rather than a positive step for both parties.”
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Brooklyn, then 13, last met Prince Harry in 2011 at the Sun Military Awards, alongside his dad DavidCredit: Darren Fletcher – The Sun
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Kate Middleton recently made her own allegiances known in a Victoria Beckham suitCredit: Getty
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While David is close to Prince William, their estranged family members – Brooklyn Beckham and Prince Harry – are hanging out in LACredit: PA
