The Queen is to make an eleventh-hour decision whether or not to attend a memorial for the Duke of Edinburgh at Westminster Abbey amid concerns over her health.
The monarch is reportedly “hopeful” of attending the event to honour her late husband Prince Philip, however has suffered with increasing mobility issues over recent months.
Aides at Buckingham Palace are understood to have worked with organisers of the event - which kicks off at 11:30am on Tuesday morning - to put a plan in place for the 95-year-old to attend in the “most comfort possible”.
READ MORE: Plus-size model slams Delta Air Lines after she is unable to fasten her seatbelt
However, The Mirror reports any final decision on her attendance will likely be taken on the day - despite her “determination” to be there.
Most members of the royal family are set to attend except Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Harry put out a statement several weeks ago saying he would not return to the UK from California for the service in memory of his late grandfather due to security concerns.
Prince Andrew will be present at his first public appearance at a royal event in many years, while some of the queen’s older great-grandchildren could attend although not confirmed.
The Queen has been actively involved in the plans for the service, having recently recovered from covid and moved permanently to Windsor Castle this month, with many elements being “deeply personal” decisions, a source said.
Philip, who worked on his own funeral details - codenamed Forth Bridge - for many years, had asked for the choir to sing Te Deum in C by Benjamin Britten, and this will be part of the proceedings.
There will be no tribute or eulogy with royal sources suggesting the event has been designed to maximise the opportunity for Her Majesty to attend in comfort.
Philip’s lasting legacy, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which he founded in 1956, will feature prominently in the service.
Sign up for Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox
The Duke, the longest British consort in history, will be remembered as a “man of rare ability and distinction” at the poignant memorial service featuring elements he planned for his own funeral which were forbidden due to coronavirus restrictions.
A royal source said: “Great thought and planning has gone into every detail of the service so it is a fitting tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh.
“The Queen has had a tremendous involvement and is hopeful of attending, but will make a decision on the day.
“Whatever the situation, the event is sure to make a lasting impression.”
