The Duke Of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor, is set to tie the knot with Olivia Henson next month in what's being called the 'society wedding of the year'. But despite having close affiliations with the royal family, reports are swirling that King Charles and Queen Camilla will not be at the nuptials.
The Monarch has not yet confirmed their attendance, according to the Daily Mail, which claims Charles and Camilla have "not forgotten" a snub from Hugh's family 20 years ago. Back in 2004, the couple had a frosty experience after being invited to the wedding of the duke's sister; Lady Tamara Grosvenor and Edward van Cutsem, and not going.
The late Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Prince William and Prince Harry were all at the wedding, but if Charles were to attend, he would have had to arrive separately to Camilla, who would have been seated several rows behind him, due to royal protocol.
Tensions were heightened by reports that Emilie, the groom's mother, and Camilla had fallen out, with the pair reportedly criticising the behaviour of each other's children.
The snub to Camilla led to the couple not attending at all, with a source now telling the Daily Mail: "Their Majesties have not forgotten what happened at the wedding of Hugh's sister. There is still a lot of tension that exists." At the time, it was explained that this seating snub was protocol as Camilla had no royal standing yet.
While the King may not be there, his son Prince William has an important part in Hugh's wedding, as he is set to be an usher on the big day. Close friends, Hugh is godfather to William and Kate's eldest son Prince George.
Hugh and Olivia are to marry on June 7 at Chester Cathedral, with reports that Prince Harry will also be steering clear of the big day.
The King has recently returned to public duties after stepping back since being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, and is set to attend Trooping The Colour next month.
Adjustments are being made to the annual event's proceedings to accommodate his health situation, with Buckingham Palace and the Ministry of Defence having spent weeks deliberating potential modifications.
It's anticipated that the King will now make his appearance in a carriage rather than on horseback, which is the usual practice for reigning monarchs. However, it has been emphasized that these plans are still under review.
