Duke of Edinburgh misses royal family's Christmas church service
Royal watchers notice absence of Prince Philip and Camilla on walk to service at nearby church of St Mary Magdalene
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Your support makes all the difference.The Duke of Edinburgh was missing as the royal family attended their Christmas Day church service at Sandringham estate on Tuesday.
Hundreds of royal supporters who gathered to catch a glimpse of the family as they walk to the nearby church of St Mary Magdalene noticed the absence of Prince Philip and the Duchess of Cornwall.
After rumours swirled about his health earlier this year, Prince Philip, 97, is believed to currently be in well and will join the family later, according to the Press Association.
However Camilla is reported to still be recovering from a heavy cold which caused her to missed another appearance at the Olympia Horse Show last week.
Royal observers noted Kate and Meghan walking side by side despite previous claims there was a rift between the two duchesses.
Onlookers braved the chilly conditions to catch a glimpse of members of the monarchy, who traditionally spend part of the festive period with the Queen at Sandringham.
Many had brought bouquets of flowers or had got in the Christmas spirit by wearing Santa hats.
Meghan walked arm in arm with Harry past the dozens of well-wishers who called out “Merry Christmas” to the royal party as they went by.
Behind the lead group strode Peter Phillips holding the hands of his daughters Savannah and Isla, and they were followed by Princess Beatrice and Peter’s wife Autumn Phillips.
A few metres behind were Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank, who smiled at the crowds as they walked towards the church.
Towards the back of the group were the Earl and Countess of Wessex with their children, Lady Louise Windsor and Viscount Severn, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence and Zara and Mike Tindall.
The Queen arrived in her state limousine with the Duke of York.
Additional reporting by PA
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