The nation is wishing Prince Philip well as his 100th birthday approaches

The Duke of Edinburgh has left St Bartholomew’s hospital in London after 17 nights there.

People around the country will be wishing him well and good health for his coming 100th birthday, three months from now.

Prince Philip and the Queen, who is approaching her 95th birthday, have exemplified a lifetime of service, both carrying out royal engagements well into their 90s.

What an inspiration they have been since their wedding more than 70 years ago, in the austere years just after World War II, including recently in the Covid pandemic.

The duke’s health concerns coincide with the drama around Harry and Meghan’s interview with Oprah Winfrey, which will screen this weekend (see page 16).

A clip of the interview shows the Duchess of Sussex saying that “it’s really liberating” to “have the ability to make our own choices”. She had, prior to her royal years, “lived a really independent life” as a successful actress.

There will be great interest in the coming broadcast. The Sussexes are still young, and might yet feel they made a mistake leaving royal life.

That royal connection, however, has been a huge boost to their careers, so it is to be hoped that they steer clear of any hint of self pity as they embark on the independence existence that they have every right to pursue.

The interview will give clues as to the tone they are likely to adopt in their new life.

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