KATE COMFORTS WILLS - ‘GRANNY NEEDS US!'

Her Majesty’s health scares are proving too much for the prince

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When it was announced the Queen was secretly hospitalised for reasons unknown, monarchists the world over were forcibly reminded that the 95-year-old is very much in the twilight of her reign.

But for Prince William, the reality of his much-admired grandmother slowing down has been at the forefront of his mind all year.

“It is inevitable, of course William knows that, but mentally preparing himself for the Queen to no longer be his confidante and guide is very different from the reality of it actually happening,” says a source. “Wills was worried sick when she was hospitalised, and even though she’s out of the woods, her team taking an axe to her public engagements diary was further proof that things are changing at the palace – and fast.”

Her Majesty has noticeably slowed down since the death of her husband Prince Philip in April, and she’s since been accompanied by at least one royal relative to events ever since.

She now walks with a cane, and aides have ensured she doesn’t have to walk long distances.