This is the hilarious reason why Prince William skipped the Commonwealth service

Even royals need a bit of R&R…

The 2017 Commonwealth service took place yesterday at Westminster Abbey, with Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall all in attendance.

There were, however, two people visibly absent from the annual multi-faith celebration: the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Luckily for everyone, Prince Harry was on hand to represent Kensington Palace at the Commonwealth service, doing a stellar job.

Prince William’s absence was explained when photos emerged of the 34-year-old royal enjoying a boys skiing holiday on the slopes of Verbier with close friends, enjoying the Swiss après-ski life until the early hours.

Whilst William is unwinding in Switzerland, Kate is said to be enjoying some family time before the couple head to Paris together this weekend.

The couple are due to arrive in the French capital on Friday, just five months before the 20-year anniversary of the death of his mother, Princess Diana.

It is yet to be announced what the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will get up to in France but a statement issued by Kensington Palace has confirmed a few of their engagements:

‘Their Royal Highness' visit is at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office,’ the statement read. ‘Full details of the visit will be announced in due course, but the itinerary will include a reception for young French leaders from a variety of fields, a formal dinner at the residence of Her Majesty's Ambassador and attendance at the Wales v France Six Nations test at the Stade de France.’