Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie to miss Christmas at Sandringham

HELLO! understands that the Duke of York and Sarah, Duchess of York and their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will not be spending Christmas with the royal family in Sandringham this year.

It's understood that it was decided earlier this year that Beatrice and Eugenie will spend the festive period with their respective in-laws for the first time since their marriages this year.

Charles and Camilla will nonetheless be joined by other members of the royal family, with the Queen's children, Tom Parker Bowles, Laura Lopes and their families, invited to join the fold for the first time.

Prince William and Kate, both 42, are also expected to join Charles and Camilla at the monarch's much-loved Norfolk residence.

Last week, William shared a glimpse inside his festive plans at a seasonal event for families of 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment. Upon arrival at Picton Barracks, William met regimental mascot Private Derby XXXIII, an 18-month-old Swaledale before meeting soldiers and their families and handing out bags of presents to children around a Christmas tree.

He told one family: "Am I ready for Christmas? No, no way am I ready."

He added he was looking forward to spending the big day with 45 members of his family "all in one room" but said they are "normally spread out".