Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been told to "take things slowly" by a former royal staffer ahead of the festive celebrations at Sandringham this Christmas. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently relocated to the UK, six years after leaving for a new life in America, but are thought to be heading back to California for the holidays.
Former Butler's Warning
Grant Harrold, who worked for the royals between 2004 and 2011, shared his views on the couple's plans. Speaking on behalf of Smooth Spins, he told GB News: "Despite their recent move back to the UK, I think Meghan and Harry will want to go back to the States for Christmas this year."
He added: "It's where their friends and Meghan's family are, so I believe they will want to spend the holidays there, and who can blame them, really. They will want to have time with their close friends, as everyone does at Christmas. I'm sure they will do a few events here before they go, but I imagine the day itself will be back in sunny California."
Advice to Avoid Royal Gathering
Mr Harrold advised against attending a royal Christmas this year, citing the recent feud with the royals. He said: "I don't think it would be a good idea for Harry and Meghan to attend a royal Christmas this year; I think it's just too soon."
He continued: "While we're told things are improving behind the scenes, there is still a long way to go, and I don't believe they're at the point of pulling crackers and sharing festive jokes quite yet. It makes sense for them to go home. It's a shame, and I really hope they get there next year, but I think it's a good idea to take things slowly for now."
Upcoming Joint Engagement
The couple are set to visit a youth and community charity in their first joint engagement since returning to the UK. The Community Recording Studio (CRS) in St Ann's, Nottingham, was originally set up to give young people access to music and recording facilities and now offers a range of creative activities, alongside sport, mentoring and youth development.
Harry and Meghan are expected to visit CRS on Thursday, where they will see how the organisation helps young people facing poverty, instability, exploitation or violence build confidence and develop practical skills. Nottingham was where the couple made their first joint appearance after announcing their engagement in 2017.
