If King Charles has forgiven Fergie, there could even be a way back into royal life for Harry and Meghan, writes RICHARD EDEN. But first, they would have to say sorry. And there is no sign of that any time soon…

The King's Christian generosity in allowing Sarah Ferguson to attend church with him on Christmas Day shows that there could even be a path back to the royal family for Harry and Meghan.

But first they would have to show some remorse.

That is the view of Richard Eden, editor of The Daily Mail Diary, writing in the latest edition of his Palace Confidential newsletter.

Her own difficult relationship with the royal family meant that Sarah, Duchess of York, had not been seen at the Christmas service at Sandringham for more than thirty years.

But that changed on Monday when Fergie joined the royals in a parade for well-wishers on their way to and from church in Norfolk.

Zara Tindall with Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York at the Christmas morning service at Sandringham Church

Sarah Ferguson greets well-wishers as she attends the Christmas morning service at Sandringham on December 25, 2023

King Charles III, Prince William, Prince Louis and Queen Camilla attend the Christmas morning service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023

“The King's embrace of the Duke and Duchess of York shows there is a way back for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex,” Eden wrote.

'Unlike Harry and Meghan, however, Andrew and Sarah have never attacked the royal family. On the contrary: they have always treated their relationships with great praise.'

King Charles used his Christmas Day broadcast to emphasize that “the words of Jesus seem more relevant than ever,” Eden writes – a sentiment backed up by his own actions.

'He demonstrated his capacity for forgiveness by inviting Sarah, Duchess of York, to join her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, and senior members of the royal family at church in Sandringham.

“The fact that Andrew was also among the working royals for the second year in a row shows that the King is determined to be a forgiving monarch.

“His brother was relieved of his royal duties by his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, due to his very ill-advised friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

'The Duke of York is said to be particularly grateful for the King's welcome to him and Sarah as he is 'haunted' by the impending publication of court documents which are expected to link him to the late Epstein and revisit the sordid scandal stir up.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, attend Christmas Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in December 2023

King Charles III, Princess Anne and Prince Andrew Royal attend Easter service at St George's Chapel, Windsor, April 2023

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attend the National Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the late Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee at St Paul's Cathedral in June 2022

“As all Christians know, before forgiveness there must come repentance. And we've seen no sign that the California-based couple is willing to apologize to those they betrayed with their insults and indiscretions.

'Until that happens, we may continue to witness the unlikely spectacle of ex-royal Fergie playing a more prominent role in the royal family than the king's second son.'

For more expert royal commentary from Richard, click here