Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will make their first joint public appearance since returning to the UK on Thursday. The couple will visit Nottingham, a location of personal significance: they made their first joint public appearance there after announcing their engagement in 2017.
Details of the Visit
According to The Times, the Sussexes are expected to visit CRS Nottingham for an acting workshop and then cook with the women of the Grenfell Hubb Community Kitchen at a food bank. They are also expected to meet with Epic Partners, an organisation supporting young people in sport.
A friend of the couple told The Times: “Nottingham is a really special place for them and they are looking forward to getting back out there into the community, together.” The Times reports the appearance comes as they “double down” on positioning themselves with new titles as “public figures” not “private citizens.”
Background and Family Life
Prince Harry and Meghan quit their royal roles in 2020 and have largely lived in the United States since. Harry told Canadian network CTV that things are going “great” after the family returned to Britain on August 26. He said of Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five: “The kids are happy in school and it gives me a chance to really focus on Invictus in Birmingham. The games are in July next year.”
Of his return, Harry added: “It’s been great. It’s been great to be back on British soil. It’s great to be back on terra firma, actually!”
Status and Security
Since leaving The Firm and returning with their children, the couple have been involved in a public spat with Buckingham Palace about their status and security detail. They have reportedly settled in the Cotswolds, and their children were left with no choice but to move schools after issues were raised by their security team about the school run. The couple plan to stay in the UK for an “extended” period.
The Duke and Duchess are not working members of the Royal Family and have not announced plans to resume official royal duties. Their return has prompted renewed discussion about their position outside the working Royal Family.
