Katja Richard and Karin Frautschi from London
Huge cheers upon the arrival of Prince Harry (37) and Duchess Meghan (40) in front of London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral. The renegade royal couple has returned to their old homeland for an official occasion for the first time since Megxit two years ago. The occasion is the thanksgiving service in honor of Queen Elizabeth II (96) on her platinum throne anniversary.
Harry wears his military insignia to celebrate the day, Meghan appears in a cream coat and hat. They are warmly welcomed by Prince Charles (73) and Camilla (74). Harry’s relationship with his father and his brother Prince William (39) has been heavily burdened since his withdrawal from the British royal family and the associated move to the United States. But the fans present don’t get much of that. Harry and Meghan smile relaxed. Charles and William are also in a good mood.
Boos for Boris Johnson
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson (57) and his wife Carrie Johnson (34) are also among the guests at the thanksgiving service. In contrast to the royals, this couple is not exactly well received – there are loud boos from onlookers. Johnson is under immense domestic political pressure because of the “Partygate” affair surrounding lockdown celebrations in Downing Street.
After all, St. Paul’s Cathedral is well filled. Even if the pandemic in Great Britain is considered to be over, Corona causes failures: Both the second oldest son of Queen Prince Andrew (62) and the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby (66), who was supposed to hold the fair, left because of infections to apologize. The Queen herself canceled her participation the day before because of “some complaints”.
More on the platinum anniversary
“We are sad that you are not here today, but we are so happy that you are still in the saddle,” says Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell (63), who leads through the service. And that makes for laughs. The Queen is known for her love of horses. He also thanks the monarch for her power to bring people together and her loyalty and devotion to her people. And he praises her for always having “stayed the course”.
Guards faint
The fact that the monarchy also demands sacrifices is evident outside the church. Several guards, some of whom had to stand still for hours in heavy uniforms, fainted on the steps.
At the end, the largest bell in the country called “Great Paul” rings out – for the first time on a royal occasion! Built in 1882, the bell was silent for decades due to a broken mechanism. It was only recently restored. Just in time for the Queen’s big jubilee.