Princes William and Harry will walk behind Philip’s coffin at his funeral next Saturday

PA
Tammy Hughes11 April 2021

Princes William and Harry will walk behind their grandfather’s coffin when they attend his funeral next week.

The brothers, who have hardly spoken in two years after series of rows, will walk shoulder to shoulder ahead of the service at Windsor Castle.

Prince Harry, 36, is due to fly back to the UK this morning and will be reunited with his family for the first time since he moved to the US last year.

It is thought Harry and William haven’t seen each other in person since autumn 2019.

Royal sources said the Duke of Edinburgh was saddened by their rift and urged them to put their differences aside for the sake of the Queen.

Meghan, who is heavily pregnant, has not been given clearance to fly and will stay at home in Montecito, California, with son Archie.

Prince Harry and Prince William - In pictures

Britain mourns Queen Elizabeth
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It means Harry will have to face his family alone after the couple’s bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey in which the duchess accused a senior royal of racism.

Harry also claimed his brother and father were “trapped” inside the Monarchy and spoke openly about his rift with William.

The Duke of Edinburgh is believed to have been a great comfort to the princes when their mother Princess Diana died.

The brothers were said to be terrified to walk behind their mother’s coffin at her funeral but Prince Philip took charge telling them, “I’ll walk if you walk”.

Harry said years later that he was grateful he was a part of it and for his grandfather’s guidance.

AP

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex posted a tribute to Philip on the website of their foundation Archewell on Friday.

It reads simply: “In loving memory of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh 1921-2021

“Thank you for your service… You will be greatly missed.”

The Duke of Edinburgh died on Friday morning at Windsor Castle just weeks after being discharged from hospital following a month-long stay.

His funeral will take place next Saturday and will be attended by 30 members of the Royal Family.

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