Also in attendance were royals including Princess Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Middleton’s parents Carole And Michaeland her sister Pippa and brother James. The audience also included caregivers, nonprofit staff, and volunteers from all walks of life, as well as World War II and families of those affected by knife attacks in Southport.
Those hoping to see the King or Queen were disappointed on Friday as neither was present. This isn’t the first year the couple has missed the event, as they both responded with regret in 2023, citing previous engagements. This year, Buckingham Palace did not give a reason for the absence.
However, Charles was there in spirit, providing the fir trees used to decorate the venue. The gift was noted in the order of service each guest received on Friday, which read: “Thank Your Majesty for the Christmas tree from Windsor Great Park to decorate Westminster Abbey. After the ceremony, these trees will be donated to the local community.”
