Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made their first joint public appearance in Britain on Thursday since their unexpected return from California, visiting Nottingham, where they carried out their first official engagement together nine years ago.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex returned to England two months ago with their children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5. Their relocation reportedly surprised King Charles and other senior members of the British royal family.
The couple's Nottingham visit marked a return to the city where they appeared together in 2017, shortly after announcing their engagement.
Harry and Meghan began their engagements at a recording studio operated by a youth and community charity. The organization benefited from a £1.1 million ($1.46 million) donation announced by Prince Harry last year.
They also planned to visit Himmah, a charity addressing food poverty. Meghan previously contributed £10,000 from proceeds of a cookbook published to support communities affected by London's Grenfell Tower fire.
Their schedule included another youth-focused organization connected to their original Nottingham visit.
The Sussexes remain controversial figures in Britain following their decision to step away from royal responsibilities in 2020 and relocate to California. Their subsequent criticism of the royal family and monarchy has contributed to divided public opinion.
Surveys indicate that most British adults view the couple negatively, although younger generations generally express greater sympathy.
Unlike their 2017 appearance, which attracted enthusiastic crowds waving British flags, Thursday's engagements were relatively low-key. Nevertheless, approximately 100 schoolchildren and supporters welcomed the couple alongside numerous journalists.
Meghan appeared visibly moved when a supporter presented her with flowers and embraced her. Another well-wisher expressed affection and encouragement for the duchess.
Prince Harry previously described his return to Britain as a positive experience during his first solo appearance following the family's relocation.
However, their move has presented challenges, particularly regarding privacy and security.
The couple's new residential address remains undisclosed because of safety concerns, and they are not occupying a royal property.
Security worries also reportedly forced Harry and Meghan to transfer their children to another school shortly after the academic term began.
Their spokesperson has additionally criticized certain European paparazzi for allegedly invading the family's privacy, highlighting the continuing challenges surrounding the Sussexes' return to Britain.
