Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly planning to win back the UK's support with a series of low-key public engagements, according to a friend of the couple. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex took a significant step this week, making their first joint public visit to Nottingham since relocating to Britain in August.
While Harry has attended public events in the UK over the past few months, Thursday's visit marked Meghan's first public appearance since the family returned to the UK in the summer. Despite reported nerves about the reception they might receive in Nottingham, the visit appears to have been a success.
Warm Welcome in Nottingham
From the moment the car pulled up, the pair were met with cheers, hugs, handshakes and gifts. This reception is believed to have thrilled Harry and Meghan, who, according to a friend, are determined to win over the UK with low-key public events, including attempts to win over critics.
As reported by The Daily Mail, a friend of the couple told Daily Mail's Editor at Large Alison Boshoff: "They are making efforts to re-enter slowly with humility and hope to win support that way."
The friend added: "There is no intention to thumb a nose at the King or cause irritation. This sort of work is what makes Harry happy, it is in his DNA. It is nothing to do with relations with the Royal Family."
Charitable Focus and Property Plans
The friend continued: "They can achieve great support for charities and intend to do so. There will be more days like [Thursday] going forward." They also said that "people want the old Harry".
Harry and Meghan are reportedly now looking for a new property in the UK, suggesting a possible move from renting to buying. This indicates their move to Britain could be long-term for the family, especially as Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, now attend schools in the UK.
The friend told The Daily Mail that Meghan will be looking more actively at property "soon." They continued: "I know that they have an agent looking at what is available for them in terms of houses and he is sending everything which might suit to their team to look at virtually. I think it's about to go up a notch."
Next Steps and Brand Expansion
It is not yet known when or what Harry and Meghan's next joint public engagement in the UK will be. The couple is believed to remain fully determined to carry out charitable work while in the UK.
It is also rumoured that Meghan is putting a lot of focus and effort into her As Ever brand, which has just launched a holiday collection. While only available to US customers at the moment, rumours have been circulating that certain goods may be sold in the UK.
