The last-minute nature of the Princess of Wales’ cancellation made Charles look weak and disrespected, but, suffering from cancer himself, he gets it, sources say.

The Princess of Wales was originally listed as taking part in Wednesday's traditional procession at the racing festival, which takes place just a few miles from Windsor, but the list was changed at the last minute.

Kate, Princess of Wales has pulled out of attending day two of Royal Ascot, just hours before she was due to join her father-in-law King Charles for the carriage procession