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Meghan Markle's kind gesture during Prince Philip's funeral

Photo credit: James D. Morgan - Getty Images
Photo credit: James D. Morgan - Getty Images

Sadly due to her pregnancy, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was unable to attend Prince Philip's funeral in person today (she was advised not to fly over from LA, where she and husband Prince Harry now live, after stepping down as senior working members of the Royal Family).

However, still wanting to pay her respects to her grandfather-in-law, the Duchess made sure that a very personal wreath, featuring a sentimental handwritten note from herself, was laid during the ceremony. A spokesperson for the Sussexes has also confirmed that Meghan watched the televised event from home.

Watch: How Meghan Markle paid tribute to Prince Philip at his funeral

The wreath of flowers sent by Meghan and Harry was designed, according to Harper's Bazaar, by one of their favourite florists, Willow Crossley, who provided beautiful floral arrangements for the evening portion of their wedding, as well as for their son Archie's christening.

It's said that the special wreath includes symbolic flowers that were picked with deliberate care, such as bear's breeches, the national flower of Greece (so as to pay homage to Prince Philip's heritage) and sea holly, which is a clear nod to the Duke's time spent in the Royal Marines.

Other poignant flowers featured in the wreath include campanula (said to signify eternal love and gratitude), rosemary (a traditional flower of remembrance), lavender to show devotion and roses in honour of Prince Philip's birth month, June.

Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images
Photo credit: Chris Jackson - Getty Images

Meghan wasn't the only high profile member of the Royal Family not in attendance – Prince William and Kate Middleton's three children, Prince George (who is set to one day become king), Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were not present at the event either.

This could have been due to coronavirus-related restrictions putting a cap on the guest list (only thirty of the Duke of Edinburgh's closest friends and family members were able to enter St George's Chapel for the funeral), or because they were deemed too young to attend such a sad and sombre event.

During the service, again due to COVID-19 rules, Her Majesty had to sit alone and social distance from the rest of the congregation, none of whom are members of her household. She was, however, able to travel there with her lady-in-waiting Lady Susan Hussey, which will have no doubt been of some small comfort.

Our thoughts are with all of Prince Philip's loved ones during this very sad time.

Watch: The wonderful life of Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh

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