In a public and significant family tradition to mark the end of 2023, the Royal Family made the annual walk from Sandringham to St Mary Magdalene church, but they were joined by a re-united family member – Sarah Ferguson.
It was the first time Fergie had been invited back to the royal estate in 32 years and she joined her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, and two daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, alongside other members of the Royal Family.
Royal expert, Jennie Bond told OK! Magazine the gesture suggests a “reconciliation” for Harry and his family was possible.
Hoping this could be a turning point for the family, Ms Bond said: “If Sarah can be welcomed back after 30 years, hope is never lost for a reconciliation between father and son.”
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Ms Bond further expressed: “We know that Eugenie has maintained a close relationship with Harry, perhaps Sarah could act as a mentor to help him reconcile with his father.”
The royal expert continued: “It was a significant illustration of the King putting into practice what he preaches. If he tells us all to ‘treat others as we would wish to be treated’, then it is helpful if we see him extending friendship and forgiveness to Sarah. And it does suggest that all is not lost with Harry and Meghan.”
The hopeful royal expert also hoped King Charles had called his son and grandchildren in California over the Christmas period.
After the Christmas Day service, the Duchess who was dressed in a dark green coat and matching headband joined King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Kate for their walkabout, as they greeted members of the public.
Fergie accepted bouquets of flowers from well-wishers, while the rest of the Royal Family was seen laughing and joking with those waiting for a glimpse of the family on Christmas Day.
The last time Fergie and Prince Andrew made the walk together from the royal estate to St Mary Magadalene church with the Royal Family was on Christmas Day in 1991.
The former couple, who continue to live together in the Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate, were seen walking behind Diana, the Princess of Wales, and a young Prince Harry at the time.
The invite in December 2023 was symbolic of Ferguson’s place within the Royal Family being restored.
Ms Bond added: “It seemed clear to me that the family were pleased to have Sarah back in their midst, the body language between her and the Princess Royal looked particularly relaxed, which is perhaps surprising.
“But this is a new generation of royals, most of whom have had their own ups and downs, divorces, scandals and very public mistakes.”
