The Duke and Duchess of Sussex received a warm reception during a joint visit to Nottingham last week, but royal reporter Jasmine Carey argues this does not reflect how they will be received across the UK.
Harry and Meghan stepped out together in Nottingham for a day of charitable visits. Contrary to expectations of boos, the couple were met with cheering, selfie requests and hugs, and were showered with flowers and gifts. The reception resembled the kind of welcome the Prince and Princess of Wales typically receive.
Why Nottingham is a special place for the couple
Carey notes that Nottingham holds fond memories for the couple, as it is where they stepped out together for the first time after their engagement announcement in 2017. This means the favourable crowds there may not accurately reflect how they will be received elsewhere in the UK.
According to Carey, the real test has not yet begun. She suggests that until the couple steps out in other locations, especially London, the true feelings of the British public will not be known.
London crowds will reveal true sentiment
In London, larger crowds with people from different areas of the UK gathered could provide a more telling indication of public sentiment, based on polls over the years. While there will be fans for the couple, Carey believes the reception could be more revealing.
It has not been confirmed when Harry and Meghan will step out together again. Carey suggests the couple may choose another place that favours them, or a context where they will not have to meet the public directly.
Reception may not reflect wider UK opinion
Carey concludes that until the couple meets larger crowds in places like London, any public response they receive may not reflect how Brits feel. She expressed gladness at the Nottingham reception, which reminded her of when the couple were popular working royals, but reiterated that the real test of public reception is yet to come.
