Wellwishers turned out in force to see the Royal Family arrive for the traditional Christmas Day service at Sandringham.

All 16 senior members of the Royal Family were present for the service at St Mary Magdalene Church.

Prince Charles and his two sons chatted to wellwishers

The Queen, Queen Mother and Princess Margaret arrived at the church by car. The rest of the Royal Family arrived on foot, led by Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry.

They chatted to people as they walked along the gravel path to the church.

Canon George Hall, the Rector of Sandringham, who led the prayers, talked of the dark and depressing periods that many had suffered this year and asked the congregation to pray for the loved ones they had lost, especially Diana, Princess of Wales.

He also read a prayer for those experiencing sadness today.

The 35-minute service was broadcast on loudspeakers to people who were unable to find a place inside the small parish church.

Once the service was over, members of the Royal Family talked to the hundreds of people waiting ouside.

International media interest in today's church visit was higher than normal following the death of the Princess of Wales.

The Royal Family are gathered at Sandringham

The Queen is keen that Princes William and Harry should have as normal a family Christmas as possible, with the support network of the Royal Family around them.

The Duchess of York arrived with her daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie on Tuesday. They are staying at Wood Farm, a cottage on the Sandringham estate.

The two girls went to the church service with their father Prince Andrew, but the Duchess has not been invited to the main festivities with the Royal Family at Sandringham House and will remain at Wood Farm on Christmas Day.
 

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