Princess Diana heartbreakingly spent her last Christmas alone after a Royal festive tradition meaning she spent the day away from her two sons.
Prince William and Prince Harry enjoyed a Christmas feast at Sandringham, whilst newly divorced Diana reportedly spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day alone, dismissing her staff so they could enjoy quality time with their own families.Christmas of 1996 saw Diana and Charles divorced for some time, already formally separating back in 1992, meaning she was therefore no longer under any obligation to spend the holidays at Sandringham House in Norfolk.During an interview with French magazine Gala, royal chef Darren McGrady gave an insight into how the much-loved 'peoples Princess' lonely Christmas, sharing: "It was always pretty sad when you worked with the Princess on Christmas Eve."Recalling her generosity, he continued: "William and Harry were going to Sandringham and Princess Diana was there, alone.
She insisted that the staff spend time with their families for Christmas and that we leave the food in the refrigerator." According to McGrady, staff prepared meals in advance that Diana could reheat herself during what was a solitary time.It's believed that Diana disliked spending Christmases at Sandringham - where she'd reportedly received a 'frosty reception - following her split from Charles.In 2015, a close friend of the late Princess gave an insight into what these awkward visits were like for the mother-of-two.
According to Daily Mail Editor at Large Richard Kay, in 1993, one year after her highly publicised separation from Charles, Diana "did join the family at Sandringham on Christmas Eve, stayed overnight, and went with everyone to church." He added: "But she didn't stay
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