Throne into disarray?

Rehearsal service 'overran significantly, Fears King will stumble over his long robe, But Palace insists everything going to plan

- RUSSELL MYERS

INSIDERS have told of frantic scenes at the Palace as preparations for the King's Coronation are hit by a string of late complications.

With a little over three weeks to go to the historic event, a rehearsal overran significantly sparking fears TV audiences will switch off on the big day.

That would pile more pressure on the King’s stuttering start to his reign which has already been marred by protests and setbacks.

A source insisted royal aides are working round the clock in a determined bid to make sure everything runs perfectly at the May 6 Westminster Abbey event.

But a catalogue of issues have plunged the planning into chaos. Apart from the longer rehearsal, which risks wrecking the King’s bid for a slimmed-down service, insiders told how:

■ Seating plans are still not arranged, owing to Prince Harry and Meghan who have not confirmed their attendance despite the April 3 cut-off point.

■ A ramp has been built to the King’s throne over fears he could stumble over his flowing robes.

■ Confusion over whether women will wear tiaras into the Abbey before the Queen Consort enters. Senior female royals were also only informed of outfits this week, prompting a rush to finalise fitting arrangements.