Meghan Markle “should be able to use the Sussex title”, according to one resident from Sussex – but should visit the area more often. The Duchess of Sussex, 43, has revealed in her new Netflix show and recent PEOPLE interview that she uses her title ‘Sussex’ as her family name, and how meaningful it is for her to share the same last name as her husband Prince Harry and children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Now residents in Sussex have shared their thoughts on Meghan using her royal title. Resident Jeff Hall, 56, told MailOnline that she is right to use the name, adding: “I’m sure the Sussex title is a very lucrative thing to have and, having married into the Royal Family, she should be able to use it.” Despite this, he believes that she should visit the area more – adding that having only visited once “isn’t good enough”.
He said: “However, if she is going to use it then I would like to see her over in the county a bit more.
“One visit in eight years isn’t really good enough. She should come more often to earn the right to use the name.”
Also speaking to the news outlet, Jeff’s brother Colin – who runs Hall’s Fruits – said: “If she’s going to claim the title then she should have more connection with the place.”
Suggesting ways that could incorporate Sussex into her life, he added: “She should get involved in a children’s charity or do something else worthwhile in the county. Simply adopting Sussex as a surname to use to your own ends is cynical.”
Speaking on behalf of Betfair Slots about Meghan’s decision to correct her surname, body language expert Darren Stanton said that it showed her true feelings about being a royal.
He said: “There was a flash of surprise from Mindy Kaling when Meghan corrected her about the name from Markle to Sussex.
“It shows pride in her relationship with Harry, but also her accepting and being completely open to her royal status. Meghan is clearly proud to be a part of the family.”
