Prince Harry and Meghan Markle appear to have been snubbed for the second time in a week after it was revealed that the pair have not been invited to the Trooping of the Colour parade.
According to reports, the Sussexes, who are now based in LA, were not invited to the King’s official birthday parade, which will take place this Saturday, 15 June.
American PR expert Michael Levine told the Mirror: “This continued exclusion of Meghan and Harry from Trooping the Colour is a poignant reflection of their ongoing estrangement from the core of the British monarchy.”
The news come as it emerged Kate Middleton may be “considering” a surprise appearance at the annual event having apologised in a heartfelt letter on for missing the final rehearsal, known as the Colonel’s Review, last weekend.
The Princess of Wales, who is the honorary Colonel of the Irish Guards, wrote: “Please pass my apologies to the whole Regiment, however, I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon.”
It comes after Prince Harry turned down an invitation to the wedding of Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, and Oliva Henson, at Chester Cathedral last week.
According to reports, he did not want ongoing family tensions to overshadow the “society wedding of the year” where Prince William served as usher.
Key Points
Harry and Meghan ‘excluded’ from Trooping the Colour
Kate Middleton ‘considering’ Trooping the Colour appearance
Why Prince Harry pulled out of Duke’s wedding
Who is the Duke of Westminster?
Queen Camilla praised for ‘warm personality’
09:37 , Emma Guinness
Queen Camilla has won praise for her hosting of the Queen’s Reading Room Literary Festival at Hampton Court Palace this weekend.
American author Harlan Coben described the royal as “fantastic” and said she had “such a warm personality” as they discussed “how pleased” they both were by the literary world.
Coben said: “There’s nothing bad about a book festival, it’s one of the few things in life, there’s no controversy, there’s nothing negative. It’s just people enjoying books.
“Everybody is smiling, the Queen’s Reading Room festival has done a great job in using science to show us that reading is actually good for us, reduces stress, it increases our mental health and our empathy. And so I’m very excited to be able to help spread that message.”
King Charles refuses to ‘slow down’ amid cancer treatment
09:28 , Emma Guinness
Queen Camilla has revealed that King Charles refuses to “slow down” as he undergoes treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer.
The Queen consort made the revelation on Saturday to author Lee Child at the Queen’s Reading Room Literary Festival at Hampton Court Palace.
When told that the King, who recently returned to work, also “won’t do what he’s told”, the author joked: “Sounds to me like a typical husband.”
Child said: “I asked her how the King was doing because he did my investiture when I got the CBE, so I have a soft spot.
“And I hope he’s doing fine. She said he is doing fine, except he won’t slow down and he won’t do what he’s told, which sounds to me a typical husband.”
King Charles to present new colours at Windsor Castle ahead of official birthday parade
09:15 , Emma Guinness
Preparations for this year’s Trooping the Colour will continue today when King Charles presents new colours to the Irish Guards at Windsor Castle.
The colours will be displayed at the King’s official birthday parade on Saturday, 15 June.
After being presented by the King, the new colours will be consecrated by the Chaplain General.
The King will later inspect the colours at Saturday’s event, where he will carry out his duties via a carriage rather than on horseback because of his ongoing cancer treatment.
Kate Middleton ‘considering’ Trooping the Colour appearance
09:07 , Emma Guinness
The Princess of Wales is reportedly “considering” a surprise appearance at the Trooping the Colour on Saturday, 15 June.
Palace sources said the Princess is considering an appearance on Buckingham Palace balcony if she feels well enough after Kensington Palace confirmed that she will not officially be taking part in the event.
Kate has been absent from public life since January after having what was then described as planned abdominal surgery.
The Princess later revealed in a poignant message that she had been diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer and would remain on leave from her duties for the foreseeable future as she undergoes “preventative chemotherapy”.
Kate was last seen in public on Christmas day last year when she attended church on the Sandringham Estate with her family.
Harry and Meghan ‘excluded’ from Trooping the Colour
08:54 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were reportedly not invited to the Trooping the Colour for a second year in a row.
News of the Sussex’s apparent latest snub comes after Prince Harry recently returned to the UK to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
While in the country, he was seemingly snubbed twice when his father failed to meet with him because of his ‘busy schedule’ and was then informed that Prince William was about to be made the colonel-in-chief of his old military regiment.
Publicist Michael Levine told The Mirror: “This continued exclusion of Meghan and Harry from Trooping the Colour is a poignant reflection of their ongoing estrangement from the core of the British monarchy.
“Their absence for the second year running underscores the deep rifts that persist despite the pageantry and tradition that define the Royal Family. It’s a stark reminder that personal conflicts can ripple through the public spectacle even in the most revered institutions.”
Watch: William gives update on wife, Kate
Saturday 8 June 2024 07:00 , Jane Dalton
Prince William shares update on Kate’s recovery as he meets D-Day veterans
Watch: Prince William reveals why Princess Charlotte is not looking forward to school
Saturday 8 June 2024 06:10 , Jane Dalton
Prince William reveals reason why Princess Charlotte is not looking forward to school
Duke heads under-40s rich list
Saturday 8 June 2024 05:05 , Jane Dalton
Hugh Grosvenor, the seventh Duke of Westminster, heads the Sunday Times 40 Under 40 Rich List, with £10.1 billion.
The duke, who is Prince George’s godfather, inherited his title and a vast land and property portfolio at the age of 25.
Dua Lipa and Harry Styles named in Sunday Times first 40 Under 40 Rich List
Flowers to be made into bouquets for charities
Saturday 8 June 2024 03:50 , Jane Dalton
Much of the foliage for the wedding of the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson came from the grounds of Duke’s Eaton Estate, which will later host the private wedding reception.
The flowers included rambling roses, philadelphus, campanula and orlaya grandiflora, while birch trees lined the inside of Chester Cathedral.
The flowers will now be made into bouquets and delivered to local charities, churches and organisations, including those with whom the royal family have a close association.
The birch trees will be relocated to the Eaton Estate.
Why Prince Harry pulled out of Duke’s wedding
Saturday 8 June 2024 02:30 , Jane Dalton
Recap:
Prince Harry’s decision to pull out of Duke of Westminster’s wedding was ‘mutual’
Why Duke and new wife chose Chester Cathedral
Saturday 8 June 2024 01:04 , Jane Dalton
Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, comes from the Grosvenor family, who hold the Eton Estate, just over four miles from Chester Cathedral, and has close ties with the church.
Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster and Hugh Grosvenor’s father, gifted the Westminster Window in the cathedral, designed by Alan Younger to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Cathedral, in 1992
Lady Tamara Grosvenor, Hugh Grosvenor’s sister, married Edward van Cutsem at Chester Cathedral in 2004.
A memorial service for Gerald Grosvenor was held at Chester Cathedral in 2016.
Watch: Just Stop Oil set off fire extinguisher metres away from Prince William
Friday 7 June 2024 23:58 , Jane Dalton
Just Stop Oil set off fire extinguisher metres away from Prince William
How Harry ‘can repair relationship with King’
Friday 7 June 2024 22:50 , Jane Dalton
In case you missed it: Royal author Robert Hardman says there is a way forward for the father and son:
How Harry can repair his relationship with King Charles, reveals royal insider
Wedding photos you may have missed
Friday 7 June 2024 21:45 , Jane Dalton
Ex-nurse arrested
Friday 7 June 2024 20:45 , Jane Dalton
The Just Stop Oil protest group said one of the two people arrested was a 69-year-old woman from Bristol, who worked as an NHS nurse for 50 years.
A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “Shortly after 1pm on Friday a coloured flare was released by two women, believed to be protesting on behalf of Just Stop Oil, on St Werberg Street, Chester.
“Officers were immediately on the scene and two women were quickly arrested on suspicion of public-order offences.
“The 69-year-old woman from Manchester and 73-year-old woman from Suffolk are both in police custody at this time.”
Duke of Westminster’s wedding could change 300-year-old law
Friday 7 June 2024 19:50 , Jane Dalton
The Hereditary Titles (Female Succession) Bill could change everything for the couple’s future children:
Could the Duke of Westminster’s wedding change an ancient English law?
Smoke appeared as William left cathedral
Friday 7 June 2024 19:00 , Jane Dalton
A witness to the Just Stop Oil protest said the orange smoke appeared just as the Prince of Wales emerged from the ceremony.
Andrea Machin, 56, said: “Everyone was watching the bride and groom and then we just saw orange and they had what looked like a fire extinguisher with them.
“The police realised quite quickly what was happening and pulled them out. One of them said it was for her grandchildren. It happened just as William was coming out of the door.”
Cheshire Police said a 69-year-old woman from Manchester, and a 73-year-old woman from Suffolk had been arrested on suspicion of public order offences.
Prince Harry pulled out after realising ‘challenges of attendance’
Friday 7 June 2024 18:10 , Jane Dalton
Prince Harry’s decision to pull out of Duke of Westminster’s wedding was ‘mutual’
Everything you need to know about the society wedding of the year
Friday 7 June 2024 17:20 , Jane Dalton
Blue shoes and bright hues: Everything you need to know about the society wedding of the year
Olivia Henson’s bridesmaid comes to the rescue
Friday 7 June 2024 16:30 , Alex Ross
Olivia Henson’s young bridesmaid came to the bride’s rescue when her dress got caught in a gust of wind.
The Duke of Westminster and his new wife were posing for pictures following their wedding ceremony at Chester Cathedral on Friday (7 June), when the wind started to pick up.
As Hugh Grosvenor smiled and waved, the new Duchess of Westminster’s long veil and dress train appeared to get caught in the wind.
A young bridesmaid rushed to help the Duchess.
Reaction to the protest
Friday 7 June 2024 16:04 , Alex Ross
People waiting outside the cathedral for the newly-wed pair have given their reaction to the Just Stop Oil protest.
Andrea Machin told The Telegraph: “Everyone was watching the bride and groom and then we just saw orange and they had what looked like a fire extinguisher with them.
“The police realised quite quickly what was happening and pulled them out. One of them said it was for her grandchildren. It happened just as William was coming out of the door.”
Victoria Walker said: “We thought it might have been confetti poppers initially.”
Who are the bridal party
Friday 7 June 2024 15:10 , Alex Ross
Hugh Grosvenor chose three best friends as his best men.
The couple had around 10 ushers, including Prince William, who showed guests to their seats as they arrived.
The bridesmaids were the Duke’s three nieces; his sister Tamara’s daughter Isla and Edwina’s daughters Zia and Orla
Cheshire Police made two arrests after protest
Friday 7 June 2024 14:51 , Alex Ross
Following the Just Stop Oil protest outside Chester Cathedral, Cheshire Police have confirmed they arrested two women.
A spokesman said: “Shortly after 1pm on Friday a coloured flare was released by two women, believed to be protesting on behalf of Just Stop Oil, on St Werberg Street, Chester.
“Officers were immediately on the scene and two women were quickly arrested on suspicion of public order offences.
“The 69-year-old woman from Manchester and 73-year-old woman from Suffolk are both in police custody at this time.”
Prince William shares a joke outside
Friday 7 June 2024 14:36 , Alex Ross
Among the guests spotted talking outside the cathedral was Prince William, who was usher at the wedding, and William van Cutsem.
Prince Eugenie was then seen smiling at the waiting cameras as she departed the church.
Also among the guests pictured was Lady Edwina Grosvenor and Dan Snow.
The newly-wed couple depart
Friday 7 June 2024 14:31 , Alex Ross
The new Duke and Duchess of Westminster kissed outside Chester Cathedral before giving waiting crowds a wave.
They were followed by guests which included Prince William and Princess Eugenie
Just Stop Oil statement
Friday 7 June 2024 14:21 , Alex Ross
“Weddings are a time of coming together in celebration to make a commitment to the future.
“However, for countless millions around the world there is no future unless we come together to stop oil and gas. That’s why we are demanding that the next UK government work with other countries to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.”
Just Stop Oil protest outside wedding
Friday 7 June 2024 14:20 , Alex Ross
As guests left the cathedral, protesters from Just Stop Oil set off fire extinguishers to shock of the surrounding crowd.
A small commotion followed before police led away least one person.
Sealed with a kiss!
Friday 7 June 2024 13:26 , Alex Ross
The Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson shared a kiss after their society wedding ceremony at Chester Cathedral.
Prince William, who was an usher at the ceremony, smiled alongside his friend William van Cutsem as they left the Cathedral in Cheshire for the nuptials of his old friend Hugh Grosvenor.
Why did the couple choose Chester Cathedral
Friday 7 June 2024 13:03 , Alex Ross
Hugh Grosvenor and Olivia Henson said it meant “a lot” for them to tie the knot in Chester, where the Grosvenor family has “long and close personal connection to both the cathedral and the city“, in a statement issued on Friday morning.
The Grosvenor family estate, Eaton Estate, where the private wedding reception will take place, is just four miles from the city.
And it is at the cathedral where the Duke’s aunt, Lady Leonora Grosvenor married Lord Lichfied in 1985. That was followed by the marriage of the Duke’s sister, Lady Tamara Grosvenor, to Edward van Cutsem in 2004.
In 2016, a memorial service was held for Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster, at the cathedral.
The arrival at Chester Cathedral of the bridal car
Friday 7 June 2024 12:45 , Alex Ross
We mentioned earlier that Olivia Henson was arriving in a vintage 1930-built Bentley, once owned by the founder of Bentley Motors – well, here’s the picture of her arriving at Chester Cathedral inside it.
The eight-litre vehicle, which can do up to 101mph, was provided by the Heritage Collection of Bentley Motors in Crewe.
Who is leading the church ceremony and when will it finish
Friday 7 June 2024 12:42 , Alex Ross
As the general public and photographers wait outside Chester Cathedral, the marriage ceremony takes place inside.
The Dean of Chester, the Very Revd Dr Tim Stratford, will lead and officiate service, while the Bishop of Chester, the Right Revd Mark Tanner, will preach, and the Revd Canon Rosie Woodall lead the prayers.
The service will be sung by the Chester Cathedral Choir, conducted by Philip Rushforth, organist and master of the choristers at Chester Cathedral. They will be accompanied by a group of musicians from north west England.
We’re expecting the service to finish at around 1pm.
A wave back at the crowd
Friday 7 June 2024 12:35 , Alex Ross
Olivia Henson turned round to wave at the crowd just before she entered Chester Cathedral to marry Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster.
Her stunning wedding dress incorporated floral motifs and edgings from her great great grandmother’s veil from around 1880.
She also wore a Faberge Myrtle Leaf Tiara that was made in 1906 for Grosvenor brides to wear on their wedding day.
Olivia’s bouquet was made of flowers picked from the gardens of the duke’s family home, Eaton Hall.
Wedding dress designed by London-based designer Emma Victoria Payne
Friday 7 June 2024 12:21 , Alex Ross
Olivia Henson’s ivory silk crepe satin wedding dress and veil was designed by London-based designer Emma Victoria Payne.
‘Here comes the bride’
Friday 7 June 2024 12:04 , Alex Ross
Another huge cheer as Olivia Henson arrives in a vintage Bentley for her wedding to Hugh Grosvenor. She waves at the crowds before going inside.
More waves and pictures of the crowds before the bride arrives
Friday 7 June 2024 11:59 , Alex Ross
C’est quoi l’amour
Friday 7 June 2024 11:53 , Alex Ross
Natalia Grosvenor, Duchess of Westminster and mother of Hugh Grosvenor, attends holding a book titled “C’est quoi l’amour”, which translates to “What is love?”
Friends of Harry and William arrive
Friday 7 June 2024 11:47 , Alex Ross
Charlie van Straubenzee, one of Prince Harry’s, best friends arrives with his wife Daisy. Also attending his Charlie’s older brother, Thomas, who is one of William’s closest friends and is Princess Charlotte’s godfather.
Just over 20 minutes from the service
Friday 7 June 2024 11:39 , Alex Ross
We’re not long to go now before the arrival of Olivia Henson, as the groom, Hugh Grosvenor, shakes hands ahead of going inside Chester Cathedral for the service which begins at noon.
Wave to the crowds
Friday 7 June 2024 11:32 , Alex Ross
Hugh Grosvenor waves to the crowds as he walks into Chester Cathedral ahead of tying the knot to Olivia Henson, as guests continue to arrive.
Hundreds of people have lined the railings to catch a glimpse of Miss Henson, who will arrive in a vintage Bentley for the service, starting at noon.
Meanwhile, police can be seen standing guard for the much-publicised event.
Groom arrives to loud cheers
Friday 7 June 2024 11:28 , Alex Ross
As Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, arrives at Chester Cathedral, embarking from a green Land Rover Defender, there are loud cheers from the waiting crowd outside the church.
He is joined by his three best men, two of whom are reported to be old school friends from Chester.
Princess Eugenie arrives with Vogue editor
Friday 7 June 2024 11:24 , Alex Ross
Princess Eugenie glances at the waiting photographers as she arrives at Chester Cathedral wearing a olive green dress and veiled cream hat.
She goes inside the church alongside Violet Henderson-Vestey, an author and former editor at Vogue.
Smiles all round as more guests come in
Friday 7 June 2024 11:19 , Alex Ross
Guests arrive to come in the cathedral to be shown to their seats by Prince William and the other ushers at the ceremony.
The service will start at noon, then finish at 1pm when a reception will be held at the Grosvenor family home, Eaton Hall, just outside Chester.
Guests continue to arrive
Friday 7 June 2024 11:13 , Alex Ross
While William arrived at the cathedral at about 10.30am, leaving a Mercedes van along with fellow ushers and entering through a side entrance unseen by many of the crowds, others were happy to be seen entering the cathedral.
They included Princess Eugenie and many others, arriving in three buses as well as two Mercedes vans.
Meanwhile, hundreds embers of the public lined railings outside, many waving Union Jack flags, as they soaked in the big occasion.
Crowds line the streets in the city centre
Friday 7 June 2024 10:57 , Alex Ross
People have lined up along the barriers in the city centre where Olivia Henson will be driven in a vintage Bentley to her wedding with the Duke of Westminster at Chester Cathedral at noon today.
Police are also stationed along the route as hundreds watch on, many with their phones out ready to take pictures of bride’s arrival.
Prince William arrives at Chester Cathedral
Friday 7 June 2024 10:46 , Alex Ross
Prince William has arrived at Chester Cathedral ahead of the wedding of the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson at midday.
He was seen walking into a side entrance of the church, avoiding the many crowds, with photographers only happy to get a picture of him from behind
Royal supporters gather outside cathedral
Friday 7 June 2024 10:29 , Alex Ross
We’re now under two hours away from the big occasion, and well-wishers are gathering at the railings outside cathedral for the ceremony.
Eileen Turner told The Telegraph: “We are really excited – it will be lovely hopefully. The winds a bit cold but you can’t have everything. It’s no raining!”
Friends Catharine Smith and Pat Taylor are excited about seeing Prince William, who will be an usher at the ceremony.
Ms Smith told the outlet: “We’re excited to see the Duke and Prince William. It would have been good if [King] Charles could come.”
The King is not expected to attend the nuptials given his ongoing cancer treatment and his recent appearance at the D-Day commemorations
Free ice cream courtesy of the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson.
Friday 7 June 2024 10:17 , Alex Ross
To mark their special day, the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson are treating visitors to Chester with free ice cream, or other treats such as donuts, gelato and arctic roll.
The pair are paying for the food not only to thank local for their support, but to also back three independent city centre businesses.
From 10am, people can get the ice cream from Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, Diddy Donuts and Krum Gelato.
Craig Fermor, owner of Diddy Donuts, told Cheshire Live: “Many of our customers have been talking about it and there’s a real buzz around the city. Chester is a great place to run a business and I’m expecting the atmosphere in the city centre on the wedding day to be really special.”
The stage is almost set
Friday 7 June 2024 10:06 , Alex Ross
Police guard the outside of Chester Cathedral where last-minute preparations are taking place ahead of the wedding of Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson at midday.
The couple have said they are looking forward to the “incredibly special day” as around 400 guests, including big names like Prince William and Prince George, are expected.
Workers are busy putting up floral decorations while carpets are being laid out for the bride’s arrival in a vintage 1930-built Bentley.
One expected absentee, however, is Prince Harry who reportedly refused his invitation to the event.
Why did the couple choose Chester Cathedral
Friday 7 June 2024 10:01 , Alex Ross
The Grosvenor family, who hold the Eton Estate, just over four miles from Chester Cathedral,hold close ties with the church.
Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster and Hugh Grosvenor’s father gifted the Westminster Window in the cathedral, designed by Alan Younger to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the Cathedral, in 1992
Lady Tamara Grosvenor,Hugh Grosvenor’s sister, married Edward van Cutsem at Chester Cathedral in 2004.
A memorial service for Gerald Grosvenor was held at Chester Cathedral in 2016.
More pictures of the bridal car to be used today
Friday 7 June 2024 09:46 , Alex Ross
Floral flowers to be repurposed and made into bouquets for local charities
Friday 7 June 2024 09:44 , Alex Ross
In a statement issued on behalf of the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson this morning, the couple have said they are using a company called Flower and Press for their wedding florals.
Much of the foliage for the wedding has also been selected from the grounds of Duke’s Eaton Estate, which will later host the private wedding reception.
The flowers will include rambling roses, philadelphus, campanula and orlaya grandiflora, while birch trees will line the inside of Chester Cathedral.
After the wedding, the flowers will be repurposed, with all possible flowers made into bouquets and delivered to local charities, churches and organisations, including those with whom the royal family have a close association.
The birch trees will be relocated to the Eaton Estate.
‘Incredibly special day’
Friday 7 June 2024 09:27 , Alex Ross
As excitement builds for the wedding today with further details for the ceremony being released, a spokesperson for the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson has issued a statement on their behalf.
In it, the couple thank the public for their support and say they are looking forward to the service.
It read: “This is an incredibly special day for the Duke and Miss Henson and they are very much looking forward to the service. It means a lot to them to marry in Chester Cathedral, especially given the Grosvenor family’s long and close personal connection to both the Cathedral and the city of Chester.
“The couple have also been moved by the messages of support they have received from around the region and are hugely grateful that people want to share in their happiness.”
The 1930-build vintage Bentley car with a maximum speed of 101mph
Friday 7 June 2024 09:18 , Alex Ross
Olivia Henson will arrive at Chester Cathedral to marry the Duke of Westminster in a vintage Bentley vehicle, originally made for Walter Owen Bentley, the founder of Bentley Motors, in 1930.
The vehicle, provided by the Heritage Collection of Bentley Motors in Crewe, was Mr Bentley’s company car in which he enjoyed drives to the south of France with wife.
Considered a masterpiece, the eight-litre GK 706 model marked the end of a chapter for the first Bentley Motors.
At the time of the car’s launch, Mr Bentley said: “I have always wanted to produce a dead silent 100mph car, and now I think that we have done it.”
There’ll be no driving the steel-framed vehicle at 100mph today, though.
A vintage Bentley to British-only flowers – what to expect from the ‘society wedding of the year’
Friday 7 June 2024 08:57 , Alex Ross
We are now just over three hours away from the royal wedding of the Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, and Olivia Henson – and more fine detail has been released on what we can expect.
The pair will marry at Chester Cathedral at noon today, with a spokesperson for them saying this morning that “their own personal stamp” has been laid on all the arrangements.
Particular focus, they said, had been made to involve local and regional suppliers.
And so, the Dean of Chester, the Very Revd Dr Tim Stratford, will lead the ceremony, while the Bishop of Chester, the Right Revd Mark Tanner will conduct the preaching.
The service will be sung by the Chester Cathedral Choir, accompanied by a group of muscians from north west England.
Miss Henson will takel to the cathedral with her father in a vintage Bentley, provided by the Heritage Collection of Bentley Motors in Crewe.
After the ceremony, the Duke and Duchess of Westminster will travel back to Eaton Estate, where they will host a private wedding reception for guests.
All the flowers for the wedding service are British, with the Duke and Miss Henson choosing seasonal flowers sourced from local growers through the “Flowers from the Farm” network, which champions artisan growers.
Preparations well underway for Duke of Westminster’s wedding
Friday 7 June 2024 08:44 , Alex Ross
As the historic city of Chester gets ready for what’s been billed as the “society wedding of the year”, work is well underway this morning to prepare for the ceremony, which begins at midday.
Scaffolding has gone up outside Chester Cathedral as workers add greenery to the external stonework while police are searching the area with sniffer dogs as part of the usual security checks for a royal event.
Last night, Princess Eugenie was among the guests seen at pre-wedding drinks at the Grosvenor hotel, before reportedly leaving with others at around midnight.
Princess Eugenie, a daughter of Prince Andrew, had not been previously confirmed as a guest for the ceremony.
Duke of Westminster and Harry reached a ‘civilised understanding’
Friday 7 June 2024 08:31 , Alex Ross
With Prince Harry set to not make his close friend Hugh Grosvenor’s wedding on Friday, questions have been raised as to why.
There appears to be no question that the Duke of Sussex was invited to the ceremony at Chester Cathedral.
But royal author Tom Quinn told The Mirror that Harry felt he should have been invited to be an usher for his old friend, a role his brother William will take up amid tensions between the pair.
He said: “Harry hates the idea of completely losing touch with his old Etonian and army friends and he was close to Hugh Grosvenor, but attending a wedding at which his brother will be an usher is just history repeating itself in the most painful way.”
Both Harry and Hugh reached a “civilised understanding” on his decision not to attend, according to reports.
ICYMI: Prince Harry to miss Duke of Westminster’s wedding while William set to be usher
Friday 7 June 2024 07:00 , Athena Stavrou
Prince Harry is set to miss his close friend’s nuptials on Friday while his brother, Prince William, serves as an usher.
The Duke of Westminster is set to wed his fiancée Olivia Henson, 31, at Chester Cathedral on Friday in what is billed to be the society wedding of the year.
Hugh Grosvenor, 33, has long had close associations with the monarchy and is the godfather of both William and Kate’s eldest son, Prince George, 10, and Harry’s son, Archie, five.
However only one of the royal brothers will be attending the celebrations amid continued tensions between the pair.
A source close to Harry told People magazine that he decided against attending the wedding after acknowledging the difficulties his presence would cause.
Could the Duke of Westminster’s wedding change a 300-year-old English law?
Friday 7 June 2024 06:00 , Athena Stavrou
The Duke of Westminster is set to tie the knot next Saturday in a lavish ceremony where none other than Prince William will act as usher.
Hugh Grosvenor, 33, is the seventh Duke of Westminster and his upcoming wedding will see Olivia Henson, 31, become the new Duchess of Westminster.
It could also reflect a potential change in English law should they have children.
Under traditional guidelines, peerages like this only pass to male heirs, which means that should the couple have a daughter, she will be known as a lady and not inherit the dukedom – and notably her family’s considerable wealth.
But the Hereditary Titles (Female Succession) Bill could change everything for their future children and is the reason that the Duke has his family’s vast wealth and not his older sister, Lady Edwina Louise Grosvenor, 42.
Under the new bill, which is set to be given a second reading on 21 June, female heirs could be able to take on a hereditary peerage or baronetcy.
Where is the Duke of Westminster getting married?
Friday 7 June 2024 05:00 , Athena Stavrou
While the specifics of how the venue will be decorated and features like music remain under wraps, it has been confirmed to take place at Chester Cathedral.
The happy couple recently paid the historic building a visit, with Grosvenor joking that his next visit will be “slightly more nerve-wracking.”
The 33-year-old, who famously owns “half of Mayfair”, opened up to the Chester Standard about why it was the perfect venue to marry Henson, an account manager at the environmentally friendly b-corp Belazu, who he met through friends.
Grosvenor, now the third richest man in the UK, inherited his wealth and property empire upon his father’s death in 2016. He has previously worked for environmental causes and runs the Grosvenor Group Limited with sustainability in mind.
“We’ve obviously got a long association with the cathedral as a family so we were here for my father’s memorial, my sister’s wedding and every Remembrance Sunday that I can attend is here,” he said.
Inside the guest list at ‘society wedding of the year’
Friday 7 June 2024 03:30 , Athena Stavrou
There will reportedly be around 400 guests at the Duke of Westminster’s wedding including big names like Prince William and Prince George.
As the Princess of Wales has been out of the spotlight since January, she is not expected to make an appearance, and it is speculated that neither will her younger children, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Prince Harry decided against attending the society wedding of the year after acknowledging the difficulties his presence would cause, it has been claimed.
Other notable names set to appear include TV historian Dan Snow, who has been married to Lady Edwina Grosvenor since 2010.
While King Charles and Camilla have been invited, it is not known whether they will attend.
Harry’s difficult ‘divorce’ – from Hugh Grosvenor’s society wedding of the year
Friday 7 June 2024 02:00 , Athena Stavrou
As the Duke of Westminster – formerly ‘Britain’s most eligible bachelor’ – gets married, all eyes are on the biggest name missing from the grandest guest list. Polly Dunbar charts Prince Harry’s sorrowful separation from the ‘sustainable Saltburn set’ he was once so happily at the heart of…
How Prince Harry was ousted from Hugh Grosvenor’s society wedding of the year
How much is Hugh Grosvenor worth?
Friday 7 June 2024 00:30 , Athena Stavrou
Once described as Britain’s most eligible bachelor, Mr Grosvenor met his new wife through friends and they announced their engagement in 2023.
Since inheriting the Grosvenor Estate in 2016, after the sudden death at the age of 64 of his father, Gerald Grosvenor, his wealth has come under much scrutiny.
Estimated to be worth around £10.127 billion, he owns roughly half of Mayfair and is officially the richest man in the UK under the age of 40.
Why has Prince Harry decided not to attend Hugh Grosvenor’s wedding?
Thursday 6 June 2024 23:00 , Athena Stavrou
Since stepping back as working royals in 2020, the Sussexes have been stripped of around-the-clock protection and must apply to the Metropolitan Police and the Home Office in advance.
They can no longer use their former Windsor home, Frogmore Cottage, although Harry was offered a place to stay in a royal residence during his trip to London last month.
The couple have had a strained relationship with their royal relatives ever since a series of bombshell interviews and Harry’s memoir, Spare, which detailed the tension between him, William and their father, the King.
Despite the awkwardness, the duke, known to those close to him as Hughie, is one of the few friends who has maintained a close relationship with both brothers.
Who is the Duke of Westminster?
Thursday 6 June 2024 22:13 , Athena Stavrou
The society wedding of the year between the Duke of Westminster and Olivia Henson is taking place at Chester Cathedral on Friday.
Hugh Grosvenor, 33, is one of the richest men in the UK with a net worth of £10.127bn, according to the 2024 Sunday Times Rich List and was once considered the country’s most eligible bachelor.
The title of the Duke of Westminster is historically significant as it is the most recent title given to a person who is not a direct descendant of the royal family – although it is worth noting that Grosvenor’s mother is a direct descendent of George II.
The dukedom was given to Hugh Grosvenor, the third Marquess of Westminster, by Queen Victoria in 1847, making the current Hugh Grosvenor the seventh Duke of Westminster.
The Duke inherited his title and the Grosvenor Estate in 2016 upon the death of his father, Gerald Grosvenor, at the age of 64. At the time, the then-sixth Duke of Westminster was the UK’s wealthiest landowner.
Now his son owns the 300-plus acre Grosvenor estate, made up of some of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods including Mayfair and Belgravia.
King Charles is Hugh’s godfather and was present at his Christening in 1991. Prince William, meanwhile, holds the Duke in such high regard that he made him Prince George’s godfather in 2013.
Grosvenor is also close friends with Prince Harry, who made the Duke Archie’s godfather.
Report: Prince Harry pulled out of Duke of Westminster’s wedding after realising ‘challenges of his attendance’
Thursday 6 June 2024 22:00 , Athena Stavrou
Prince Harry decided against attending the society wedding of the year after acknowledging the difficulties his presence would cause, it has been claimed.
After months of speculation, sources close to the Duke of Sussex told People magazine that he had spoken privately to his longtime friend, the Duke of Westminster, about the challenges of his attendance before they mutually came to the decision.
Given his strained relationship with his brother Prince William, who is serving as an usher, the decision avoids any awkward run-ins which could have overshadowed the big day.
Read the full report here:
Prince Harry’s decision to pull out of Duke of Westminster’s wedding was ‘mutual’
Prince Harry to miss wedding while William to be usher
Thursday 6 June 2024 19:36 , Athena Stavrou
Prince Harry is set to miss his close friend’s nuptials on Friday while his brother, Prince William, serves as an usher.
The Duke of Westminster is set to wed his fiancée Olivia Henson, 31, at Chester Cathedral on Friday in what is billed to be the society wedding of the year.
Hugh Grosvenor, 33, has long had close associations with the monarchy and is the godfather of both William and Kate’s eldest son, Prince George, 10, and Harry’s son, Archie, five.
However only one of the royal brothers will be attending the celebrations amid continued tensions between the pair.
A source close to Harry told People magazine that he decided against attending the wedding after acknowledging the difficulties his presence would cause.
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