Princess Anne's son, Peter Phillips, has announced his wedding to NHS nurse Harriet Sperling will take place on Saturday, June 6 at All Saints Church, Kemble in Cirencester. The private ceremony comes as a welcome distraction for the Royal Family, but a royal expert warns that the longstanding rift between Princes William and Harry could create a difficult dilemma over invitations.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror that the couple's decision to hold a small, private wedding may help avoid the strain. She noted that Peter has been a support to both brothers, acting as a buffer at the late Duke of Edinburgh's funeral, and that the estrangement must be difficult for him to navigate. Bond suggested the 'small private wedding' excuse could allow Peter to exclude both William and Harry without causing offence.
Harriet, a paediatric nurse and single mother, has been welcomed into the family, particularly by the Princess of Wales, with whom she shares an interest in children's development. Bond described her as a 'welcome addition' to the wider family.
The King and Queen, as well as the Prince and Princess of Wales, have been informed of the announcement. Further details are expected in due course.
