Camilla hopes to be able to attend all elements of Donald Trump’s state visit this week
Prince Andrew joined the royal family at the Duchess of Kent’s funeral – except for the Queen, who pulled out of attending due to illness.
Camilla, 78, is recovering from acute sinusitis, a swelling of the sinuses usually caused by an infection.
The Queen is said to hope to have recovered sufficiently to be able to attend all elements of Donald Trump’s state visit on Wednesday and Thursday.
New FeatureIn ShortQuick Stories. Same trusted journalism.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “With great regret, Her Majesty The Queen has withdrawn from attendance at this afternoon’s Requiem Mass for The Duchess of Kent as she is recovering from acute sinusitis.
“Her thoughts and prayers will be with The Duke of Kent and all the family.”
The coffin carried into Westminster Cathedral ahead of the Duchess of Kent’s funeral (Photo: Paul Grover/WPA Pool/Getty)
The Duke of Kent has been informed and is said to fully understand Camilla’s decision, having sent his best wishes for a quick recovery.
The Queen travelled down from Scotland this morning and travelled to Windsor to rest.
She had been expected to join the King and other members of the royal family at the farewell to the duchess at Westminster Cathedral in London on Tuesday afternoon.
The Duke of York, who no longer carries out official duties for the monarchy after stepping down six years ago amid controversy over his friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, joined his ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York at the service.
Andrew shook hands with the four members of the clergy waiting outside who smiled broadly at him.
Andrew arriving at the funeral (Photo: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images)
Shortly beforehand, the Duke of Kent’s brother, Prince Michael of Kent, arrived, appearing frail and walking slowly using a stick as he made his way into the church for her funeral mass.
He was accompanied by his wife Princess Michael of Kent, who was also using a stick.
With them was their daughter Lady Gabriella Windsor, and they led a large contingent of the royal family all dressed in black in mourning, including Lord Frederick Windsor and Lady Sophie Windsor, with some of the party arriving together by minibus.
This is a breaking story.