King Charles’ tear-jerking birthday tribute to grandson Archie who he never sees
KING Charles made a tear-jerking birthday tribute to his grandson Archie at the coronation lunch.
The poignant moment came at a private family gathering at Buckingham Palace following his Westminster Abbey crowning and appearance on the balcony with Queen Camilla.
Prince William reportedly welcomed guests at the table with a short and sweet toast congratulating his father.
Monarch Charles then raised a glass to wish young Archie a very happy birthday “wherever he was”, reports MailOnline.
The King had made a point of toasting “those that weren’t there’ after the special occasion.
Meghan 41, threw a “private celebration” to mark Archie turning four while Harry, 38, attended the historical event.
The Duke skipped the coronation lunch after attending the service at Westminster Abbey.
Despite missing the party, Harry did arrive back in the US in time to see his son on his birthday after rushing home from London.
And King Charles III, was also reportedly “genuinely disappointed” that his son wasn’t there for the coronation lunch.
The newly crowned monarch thanked everyone for helping create such a special and memorable experience for him and Queen Camilla.
The 74-year-old made a toast to his grandchildren Prince George – who also served as a Page of Honour – Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The source told The Mail: “It was apparently a very sweet moment.”
Other guests in attendance included Queen Camilla’s family, sister Annabel, and best friend Lady Landsdowne, both of whom served as her attendants on the big day.
Her children, Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes, and grandchildren, Lola, Freddy, Eliza, Louis and Gus were all reportedly there too.
Kate’s parents Michael and Carole Middleton, and siblings Pippa and James also joined the Royal Family for the celebratory meal and “running buffet”, according to the source.
The official dish of the coronation weekend, mini broad bean and tarragon Coronation quiche, was served as a canape with a glass of Champagne.
Apparently neither King Charles or his wife are too keen on coronation chicken – created to honour Queen Elizabeth in 1953 – so a “modern take” was served as canapes.
It was reported most of the family retreated to Windsor Castle after the meal for an intimate family cocktail party.
Millions were glued to the TV on Saturday as Harry sat among the Royal Family for the first time since criticising Charles, Camilla, William and Kate in his memoir.
His relationship with his brother, the Prince of Wales, remains deeply strained.
The pair are not believed to have exchanged any words before or after the ceremony.