Real reason Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie missed Commonwealth Day service revealed

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have not joined other senior royals at the Westminster Abbey service today.

Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie

Members of the Royal Family have stepped out together at Westminster Abbey today to attend the Commonwealth Day service. King Charles and Queen Camilla led the Royal Family at today’s event in London, with Prince William, Princess Catherine and Princess Anne also present.

Although not being broadcast by the BBC this year, the service is an extremely important date in the royal calendar. This is because the service brings together the Commonwealth’s 56 nations and celebrates the links between them.

But royal fans were disappointed not to see the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh at the event, with an insider revealing why they were unable to attend.

A royal source told the Daily Express that they were unable to attend the Commonwealth Day Service as they are currently in Italy for the Paralympic Winter Games, which started on Friday.

The couple travelled at the end of last week and attended events over the weekend.

Edward, who is patron of The British Paralympic Association, released a video message on Friday wishing athletes good luck.

It is understood they will stay in Italy for several days as they cheer on our GB competitirs.

Edward, who has been patron of the British Paralympic Association since 2003, said in the video: “I just wanted to wish you all the best for the forthcoming Games in Italy, and I hope that that, just as generally, but also in your individual competitions.

“The Olympic team surprised so many of us, and I know that you’re going to go out there and surprise many as well.

“And you’re just going to be able to show them exactly what you can do.

“So, good luck, have fun, and however you’re involved in the team, I hope you really enjoy the experience.”