Thomas Markle wishes Archie 'health and happiness' from afar, as Prince Harry and Meghan's friends rally for secretive christening operation

The Duchess of Sussex’s estranged father has wished his grandson “health and happiness” from afar, as Archie Mountbatten-Windsor's family and new godparents rallied around a remarkably secretive operation for his christening.

Thomas Markle, who has never met either his son-in-law the Duke or his baby grandson, said he would have “enjoyed” seeing Archie being welcomed into the Church of England had he been invited.

The Duchess’ mother, Doria Ragland who spent Archie's early weeks at Frogmore Cottage, was included in the celebration and official photographs, along with the Duke’s two maternal aunts Lady Jane Fellowes and Lady Sarah McCorquodale.