Camilla pulls out of Diana service

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Camilla has pulled out of the televised commemoration which the princes are staging in honour of Diana, Princess of Wales.

The Duchess made the U-turn after facing fierce criticism for accepting the invitation offered to her by William and Harry.

Explaining her actions, she said she did not want to detract from the purpose of the day.

Her presence was always going to be controversial, with some adamant it was inappropriate for the woman who had an affair with the Prince of Wales while he was still married to the princess to be there.

Camilla said in a statement: "I'm very touched to have been invited by Prince William and Prince Harry. 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."

The Duchess is understood to have thought long and hard about the situation and talked it over with Charles, William - who only returned from holiday on Friday - Harry and her own family.

It is unusual for members of the Royal Family to explain their actions in such detail and for Camilla to do so illustrates the lengths Clarence House has had to go to to deal with such a sensitive and difficult situation.

The Queen, who is at Balmoral on her summer break, approved Camilla's decision.

The Duchess, who has also been on the Scottish estate with the Prince of Wales, is likely to remain there while the rest of the Royal Family head to London for the service at the Guards' Chapel at Wellington Barracks on Friday.