The solemn funeral of the Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, brought together figures from across British society, but it was the presence and absences within the Royal Family that captured significant attention.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was a prominent mourner at the service held at Chester Cathedral. His attendance came amidst a notable absence of working senior royals. King Charles III and Prince William, the Prince of Wales, both cited official overseas engagements as the reason for their non-attendance, a move interpreted by many as a careful balancing act to avoid private family tensions overshadowing the solemn occasion.
Elegantly attired in a morning suit, Harry joined a congregation of over 800 guests to pay tribute to the late Duke, his close friend and godfather to Prince Archie. The service was a poignant blend of military tradition and personal reflection, honouring one of Britain's wealthiest and most philanthropic landowners.
Adding to the royal contingent was the Duchess of Kent, who attended the ceremony. Her presence provided a touch of regal solemnity alongside Harry.
The decision of King Charles and Prince William to send their regrets and not attend has ignited a fresh wave of speculation about the ongoing rift within the House of Windsor. Their absence was keenly felt, underscoring the complex and still-fraught relationship between Harry and the rest of the family, even on days of shared grief.
