King Charles’s former butler sends message to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry as they navigate reconciliation: ‘Take things slowly!’

Speaking on behalf of Smooth Spins, Mr Harrold exclusively told GB News: “Despite their recent move back to the UK, I think Meghan and Harry will want to go back to the States for Christmas this year.

“It’s where their friends and Meghan’s family are, so I believe they will want to spend the holidays there, and who can blame them really.

“They will want to have time with their close friends, as everyone does at Christmas.

“I’m sure they will do a few events here before they go, but I imagine the day itself will be back in sunny California.”

Meghan, 45, and Harry, 42, are travelling to Nottingham on Thursday to visit a youth and community charity in their first joint engagement since returning to the UK.

It is anticipated that more of these royal-style engagements by the Sussexes will continue in the coming weeks.

Mr Harrold continued: “I don’t think it would be a good idea for Harry and Meghan to attend a royal Christmas this year; I think it’s just too soon.

“While we’re told things are improving behind the scenes, there is still a long way to go, and I don’t believe they’re at the point of pulling crackers and sharing festive jokes quite yet. It makes sense for them to go home.

“It’s a shame, and I really hope they get there next year, but I think it’s a good idea to take things slowly for now.”

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will travel to Nottingham on Thursday for a visit to the Community Recording Studio, a youth and community charity based in the St Ann’s area of the city.

The outing is expected to follow a format reminiscent of the couple’s engagements before they stepped away from royal duties in 2020.

Nottingham holds particular significance for the pair, as it was the location of their debut joint public appearance following the announcement of their engagement in 2017.

The charity was initially established to provide young people with access to music and recording facilities but has since broadened its offering to encompass creative programmes, sporting activities, mentoring and youth development.

Its work is aimed at supporting young people who face challenges including poverty, exploitation, violence and instability, helping them gain confidence and build practical skills.

A £1.1million contribution from Harry to BBC Children in Need, revealed during his visit in September 2025, is funding part of the studio’s redevelopment.

That work sits alongside a programme run by Epic, an organisation focused on young people who have experienced adverse childhood experiences.

By March of this year, Epic’s initiative was operating across seven schools, reaching 45 pupils and assisting them in managing difficult experiences, maintaining educational engagement and building stronger relationships.

Harry’s connection to the St Ann’s community dates back to 2013, when he made a private visit to the area.