King Charles’ real reason for leaving his cousin’s wedding early is revealed

The private ceremony brought together senior members of the royal family, including Princess Anne, 75, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Lawrence, 70, Zara Tindall, 44, Mike Tindall, 46, Prince Edward, 62, and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, 61.

Shortly after the service ended, Charles and Camilla left by helicopter for Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey to attend Betfred Derby Day as patrons of the Jockey Club – prompting fierce criticism from some observers who felt the pair were unusually quick to leave an important family milestone.

Sources told us the king’s departure was always planned, but suggested there were other reasons to keep his appearance at the wedding relatively short.

An insider said: “Charles wanted to be there for Peter and Harriet on their big day, but he also didn’t want to be caught up for hours in conversations about the family dramas and controversies that have dominated royal headlines in recent years. He felt the focus should remain on the newlyweds rather than getting embroiled in discussions about absent relatives.”