BRITAIN:The Duchess of Cornwall has decided she can no longer attend a memorial service to mark the 10th anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, Clarence House announced yesterday.
Camilla had been invited to the ceremony at the Guards' Chapel in Wellington Barracks in London next Friday by Princes William and Harry but following a public outcry over her agreement to go, she changed her mind. Campaigners argued that it was inappropriate for the woman blamed by the Princess of Wales for the destruction of her marriage to attend a service in her memory. Protesters threatened to pelt her with eggs if she turned up to take her front-row seat.
Camilla had a long affair with the Prince of Wales while he was married to Diana. In a statement Camilla said: "I'm very touched to have been invited by Prince William and Prince Harry to attend the thanksgiving service for their mother Diana, Princess of Wales. I accepted and wanted to support them, however, on reflection I believe my attendance could divert attention from the purpose of the occasion which is to focus on the life and service of Diana. I'm grateful to my husband, William and Harry for supporting my decision."
In an ICM poll, more than half of people surveyed believed the duchess should not attend the ceremony.