Meghan Markle sees Prince Charles 'as a father figure' and 'won't reconcile' with Thomas Markle

Her rocky relationship with her own father has been the subject of many a headline

Meghan Markle's fragile relationship with her father and extended family has been widely reported. Her dad, Thomas Markle, didn't attend her wedding, her sister, Samantha Markle, has been very vocal about her feelings towards the Duchess (and has made some unsavoury – and very strange – comments about the new mum), and her brother, Thomas Markle Jr, claimed Meghan's wedding left him 'homeless'.

While she maintains a close relationship with her mum, Doria Ragland, Meghan has decided to distance herself from the rest of her family.

But as a result, she has bonded with her father-in-law, Prince Charles. He famously walked her down the aisle on her wedding day to his youngest son, Prince Harry, and apparently he also has a nickname for his daughter in law: he humorously calls her 'Tungsten' because she is as 'tough and unbending' as the metal.

Now, journalist and author of Prince Charles biography, Charles at Seventy, Robert Jobson has spoken about their relationship, claiming that Meghan has made some very sweet comments about her father in law. He says an official palace source revealed: 'When Meghan met the Prince of Wales she was bowled over by his gentlemanly charm.

'She told Prince Harry he was wonderful; welcoming, warm, hardworking, kind and stable.

'She made it clear that he should appreciate him and bond more.'

A royal insider has also previously claimed that Meghan sees Charles as a 'father figure' and they have developed a 'strong bond'.

They told Mirror.co.uk: 'Meghan’s overriding view is that there is no place for her father or his extended family in her life right now. She has a strong family unit around her in Harry, with their adorable newborn son, and he has been very, very clear that she only wants positive influences for Archie.

'If anything she has developed a strong bond with Harry’s father and has discussed the situation with him. She definitely sees Charles as a father figure, a principled man who has had his life played out in the public eye.'

According to the source, there is 'zero chance of a reconciliation' and the Queen believes she has dealt with her family issues 'in a dignified manner'.

Another source added: 'This is in no way about him wishing to replace her father. Charles just feels very protective over Meghan, and of course Harry, and in anything that may be affecting his family.

'He is very conscious that joining the family is a major step and is on hand if Meghan needs any advice at all.'

How lovely!