The Duchess of Cornwall has pulled out of attending the memorial service for the 10th anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, Clarence House said today.

In a dignified statement, Camilla said she feared her presence could divert attention from the purpose of the occasion.

She said, “I’m very touched to have been invited by Prince William and Prince Harry to attend the thanksgiving service for their mother Diana, Princess of Wales. 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. I’m grateful to my husband, William and Harry for supporting my decision.”

The announcement came after Rosa Monckton, Diana’s best friend, writing in the Mail on Sunday, urged the Duchess not to attend.

In the article, Rosa Monckton writes that Diana would have been “astonished” that Camilla, whom she described as the third person in her marriage was one of the guests of honour at the service.