The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have shared a family video on Instagram showing their children enjoying outdoor activities, marking their return to life in the UK. The footage, posted by Meghan Markle, features Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet fishing, splashing in puddles, and taking country walks, set to the tune of Wham!'s 'Wake Me Up Before You Go Go'.
The video opens with Meghan and Harry walking hand in hand, with the duchess turning to the camera and saying: "Come on, you, come on." Other clips show one of the children sitting by a roaring fireplace, Lilibet riding a bicycle with training wheels while wearing wellies and carrying a doll on the back, and Archie running past his sister in his wellies. Harry is also seen fishing with the children.
Family settles into new school year
According to People magazine, Archie, seven, and five-year-old Lilibet have started the new school year in Britain after the family relocated from the US a little over two weeks ago. A source close to Harry and Meghan told the US publication: "They are happy to be back."
The source added that settling the children "has been, and remains, their focus. Everything else will fall into place when the time is right." They continued: "There is a lot to do. They have just moved halfway across the world and it's been really busy getting the kids settled. Their focus has been on that, and will remain on that, for the time being. They are happy to be back."
Remarks amid reported royal tension
The remarks, described as the first real insight into the Sussexes' thoughts on the move, come amid what is seen as growing tension between the Sussex camp and the royal household. Harry and Meghan were said to be "surprised" by a formal letter sent by the Lord Chamberlain under the direction of the King to senior stakeholders in the Government and military, which described them as "private citizens".
The duke and duchess, who are waiting to hear whether they will be given taxpayer-funded security, are reported to prefer the term "public figures".
Background of the relocation
Harry and Meghan stepped away from the working monarchy six years ago for a new life of personal and financial freedom in the US. Just over a fortnight ago, they moved back to the UK, having enrolled Archie and Lilibet in new schools, with Meghan rumoured to be returning to acting again.
The family's return marks a significant change after their time in the United States, and the video offers a glimpse into their new life in Britain. The couple's focus remains on their children's adjustment, according to the source close to them.
