Royals to Skip Traditional Christmas Day Church Service Amid Pandemic

In an unprecedented move, Prince William, Kate, and other members of the royal family have decided to forgo attending the Christmas Day church service at Sandringham for the first time in 32 years, citing concerns over the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Norfolk police made the announcement today, confirming that there will be no royal presence at the customary service held at St Mary Magdalene Church.

Despite being just two miles away at their country residence, Anmer Hall, William and Kate will opt to stay away from the traditional gathering.

Breaking from tradition, the police issued a statement urging the public to refrain from congregating at the church on Christmas Day, a spectacle that typically draws thousands of enthusiastic well-wishers hoping to catch a glimpse of the Queen and other royals during the 11 am service.

This precautionary measure is aimed at minimizing the risk of Covid-19 transmission within crowds that usually gather in anticipation of the royal family's arrival.

According to the Norfolk police statement, there will be no official royal event at Sandringham this year, and members of the royal family will not be participating in the customary Christmas Day service.

Earlier in December, it was disclosed that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip would be celebrating the holiday season quietly at Windsor Castle instead of their usual residence in Sandringham.

Despite the absence of the royals, the Christmas Day service at Sandringham Church is scheduled to proceed with strict safety measures in place.

Worshippers will be required to maintain a two-meter social distance and refrain from singing during the service.

Only local regular attendees will be granted access, with mandatory use of hand sanitizer upon entry and exit.

Prospective attendees are advised to contact the church warden beforehand to make arrangements.

Since 1988, the royal family has observed Christmas traditions at Sandringham, relocating festivities to Norfolk due to renovations at Windsor Castle.

Typically, the Queen arrives at the service in her maroon Bentley, while other family members undertake a short walk from Sandringham House to the church.