Queen, 96, ‘will prioritise seeing Lilibet tomorrow for great-granddaughters first birthday despite mobility problems’
THE Queen will prioritise seeing Lilibet on the tot's first birthday tomorrow - despite pulling out of the Epsom Derby, a royal expert says.
Her Majesty did not attend today's Service of Thanksgiving after experiencing mobility issues during yesterday's celebrations.
It was also confirmed today that, as expected, she will not travel for the Derby, which is one of her favourite events of the year.
However, author Richard Fitzwilliams says she is unlikely to miss such a special family day with the great-granddaughter named after her.
It's understood she met Lilibet for the first time yesterday after the Sussexes took the tot to Windsor Castle.
Mr Fitzwilliams told The Sun Online: "The Derby would have been too much for her tomorrow, but I'm sure she is very much looking forward to celebrating Lili's birthday.
Read more on the Jubilee
"Absolutely she will prioritise seeing her.
"It's just a question of mobility. And when you have mobility ups and downs, it's very difficult to plan."
Her Majesty beamed as she joined her family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace yesterday afternoon.
She was seen smiling at Louis, who stole the show as he animatedly chatted away and pulled faces.
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But hours later, officials said she wouldn't be attending today's service because she had experienced some "discomfort" during the ceremony.
Despite that, she bravely smiled for Brits as she lit a beacon in the grounds of Windsor Castle during the evening.
Kate Middleton today reassured worried royal fans that the monarch is "fine", although found yesterday "very tiring".
Mr Fitzwilliams said backing out of the Derby will have been a particular source of regret for Her Majesty.
She doesn't have a horse running this year, but "would have wished she had", he said.
"There is still hope she wins next year though. She is so keen on the turf, she is a great enthusiast, so passionate," he added.
More on the Queen's Jubilee weekend...
- The Queen, 96, has ‘finally met Lilibet’ after the daughter of Meghan and Harry came to the UK for the first time
- Harry grinned as he held hands with Meghan during his royal return
- Her Majesty didn't attend the St Paul’s Jubilee service after suffering pain during yesterday's parade and flypast
- She also won't attend the Epsom Derby tomorrow
- But Kate Middleton has reassured royal fans that the monarch is "fine", although found yesterday "tiring"
- Adorable Prince Louis jumped up and down with joy as he was wowed by Red Arrows - much to Queen’s delight
- Prince Andrew didn't attend the St Paul's service - here's why
"Royal Ascot is the first thing that goes into her diary. It's one of her joys."
Despite the absence of both the Queen and Prince Andrew - who has tested positive for Covid - the service went off without a hitch today.
Harry and Meghan were among those to attend.
Cheers rang out as the "nervous" couple arrived hand-in-hand.
The Sussexes were sat away from William and Kate, although seemed at ease throughout the high-profile occasion, sharing smiles and jokes with family members.
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Charles and Camilla were the last royals to arrive, stopping to speak with members of the clergy before making their way to their seats in the front row.
On their walk, Charles paused to blow his daughter-in-law Kate a kiss.
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