The Daily Telegraph

Duchess is ‘absolutely thrilled’ at news of engagement

- By Anita Singh ARTS AND ENTERTAINM­ENT EDITOR

FROM the moment she was welcomed into the Royal family, the Duchess of Cambridge has found her every outfit, hairstyle and utterance pored over by the public.

So when she declared herself “absolutely thrilled” at the engagement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle yesterday, could it be that she was also breathing a secret sigh of relief that the spotlight can now be shared?

The two women have already become firm friends. “She’s been wonderful,” Ms Markle said of the Duchess. The couples are Kensington Palace neighbours, with Ms Markle moving into Nottingham Cottage with Prince Harry and the Duke and Duchess sharing an apartment a short stroll away.

The Duke and Duchess have “prioritise­d” getting to know Ms Markle, a source said, and she has already met Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

“Prince Harry has been able to introduce Meghan to the Duke and Duchess and their children on many occasions. They have spent a lot of time together,” the source said.

The Duchess, who is pregnant with her third child, was asked about the engagement when she arrived for a char- ity visit at London’s Foundling Museum yesterday. She said: “William and I are absolutely thrilled. It’s such exciting news. It’s a really happy time for any couple and we wish them all the best.” ♦ The Duchess of Cambridge’s uncle has said he remains devoted to his wife and hopes they can reconcile after he was sentenced for punching her.

Gary Goldsmith, 52, received a 12-month community order and was fined £5,000 after admitting attacking Julie-ann Goldsmith, 47 last month.

The former businessma­n, who is the younger brother of Carole Middleton, admitted hitting his wife as they returned home following a charity event.

 ??  ?? The Duchess is already said to be firm friends with Ms Markle
The Duchess is already said to be firm friends with Ms Markle

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