The King's PAIN

It's impossible for him to see Harry's family

- KERRY PARNELL.

He might be the monarch, but he is also a doting grandfather, and King Charles’ heart can’t fail to melt at the sight of the littlest Windsors tearing open their presents and enjoying the magic of Christmas. And as families around the nation gather together to enjoy the festivities, the Royal Family will be no exception.

But the King’s joy will be tinged with sadness this December as, once again, two of his five grandchildren are absent at Christmas.

Harry recently said becoming a dad had changed his outlook. ‘Becoming a father of two incredibly kind and funny kids has given me a fresh perspective on life,’ he told the BBC. ‘Being a dad is one of life’s greatest joys and has only made me more driven and more committed to making this world a better place.’ However, it doesn’t seem to have changed his perspective on the rift with his own father. Insiders say Charles is still determined to repair the relationship with his youngest son, and wants to be a real grandfather to Archie and Lilibet, spending time with them in person, not just over the phone.

‘Family has always been important to the King. It is a great sadness to him he doesn’t see more of Archie and Lilibet,’ royal biographer Ingrid Seward has said. ‘That is why he will never break ties with Harry.