The News
**Camilla Rejects Meghan’s Request for Coronation Champions Award for Archule**
Queen Consort Camilla recently announced the crowning of 500 Coronation Champions in celebration of Britain's dedicated volunteers, following an overwhelming response of 5,000 entries.
A panel of 20 judges convened in London to select the final award recipients from the numerous submissions.
The nominations for the Coronation Champions awards, supported by the Mail, exceeded expectations with double the anticipated number of entries pouring in.
Reports suggest that Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was left dismayed upon hearing the news and reached out to Catherine Johnston, the Chief Executive of the Royal Voluntary Service, to propose Archule for the prestigious royal recognition.
However, Meghan was reportedly left in tears upon discovering that the awards, organized by the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS), were initiated by Camilla to honor the country's volunteer workforce.
Both Meghan and King Charles had expressed a keen interest in utilizing the coronation to acknowledge and reward individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication within their communities.
Queen Camilla promptly dismissed the Duchess' unconventional request.
The 500 chosen Coronation Champions will receive a special pin and a certificate signed by the monarchs, along with invitations to attend either the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle on May 7 or a garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Dr. Eddie Hogg, a social policy lecturer at the University of Kent, meticulously narrowed down the entries to 676 before the final 500 were selected by the judging panel, which included prominent figures such as Charity Supremo Dame Julia Cleverdon and Chief Nursing Officer Dame Ruth May.
The winners will be notified individually in the coming week, with all 500 names set to be published on the RVS website by month-end, and some recipients to be featured in the Daily Mail.
The awards encompass eight categories, including Older People and Dementia Support, Young People and Children, Crisis and Welfare, Community, Mental Health and Companionship, Physical Health and Disability, NHS and Social Care, as well as Sustainability and the Environment.
Catherine Johnston commended the entrants, stating that each submission was deserving of recognition for their remarkable efforts in enhancing their communities.
Juliet Bovery, CEO of the Stroke Association, emphasized the significance of these individuals in bridging societal divides and making tangible contributions to people's lives amidst the current climate of political and public service disillusionment.
Prince Harry is confirmed to attend his father's coronation, while Meghan will remain in California with their children to celebrate Archie's fourth birthday on May 6.
Meghan's decision to stay home is believed to be influenced by Archie's birthday and her focus on their future in the United States.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams suggested that Meghan's absence from the coronation is indicative of her gradual disassociation from royal engagements, prioritizing her personal interests and brand development.
PR and brand expert Nick Ader echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Meghan's strategic shift away from royal obligations since stepping back in 2020.
Eric Schiffer, Chairman of Reputation Management Consultants, noted that Meghan's decision not to attend the coronation is unlikely to have a substantial negative impact on her global image, particularly outside the UK.
He emphasized that her absence is unlikely to tarnish her brand on an international scale.