Thomas Markle reveals regret at not being invited to baby Archie's christening

Meghan Markle’s estranged father has broken his silence following the christening of his grandson Archie Harrison.

Thomas Markle, 74, said he would have liked to have been present at the service, which took place on Saturday at a private chapel at Windsor Castle.

But he wishes his daughter, son-in-law and baby grandson ‘health and happiness.’

Speaking to the Mail on Sunday, the retired lighting director said: “I have been asked if I would have liked to have gone to Britain to see my new grandson being christened.

“I was an altar boy at age 12, a confirmed member of the Queen's church at age 14, and Archie is my new grandson, so of course I would have enjoyed being there for the blessing, wishing Archie and his parents health and happiness.”

READ MORE: Meghan and Harry release baby Archie's christening photos - and include subtle tribute to Diana

The Duchess of Sussex’s mother Doria Ragland was her only family member to attend the wedding last year and was present at the christening at Saturday.

It’s believed that Meghan hasn’t spoken to her dad Thomas since her wedding last May. He admitted he staged paparazzi photos for money and subsequently pulled out of walking his daughter down the aisle, reportedly due to health problems.

Since the wedding, Mr Markle has given numerous interviews to the press and TV channels, including sharing excerpts of a five-page letter Meghan wrote him in August last year.

Mr Markle has not met his son-in-law Harry or his new grandson.

When Archie was born, he gave a statement to The Sun saying: “I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity, and honor [sic].

“God bless the child and I wish him health and happiness, and my congratulations to my lovely daughter Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, and God save the Queen.”