Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been mocked in a tongue-in-cheek article published by their local newspaper, the Montecito Journal.

It follows the couple’s decision to remain in Montecito, California, after – unsurprisingly – not being invited to the Royal Family’s Christmas festivities in Sandringham Norfolk.

The article, titled ‘Local Couple Likes Living Here’, states how Prince Harry opened up about his decision to stay in the US at the annual New York Times DealBook Summit in Manhattan.

Prince Harry told the audience: “I really enjoy living here and bringing up my kids here.”

The article states how the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are “set to spend Yuletide in our rarefied enclave with their children, Archie and Lilibet..”

The article carefully mocks the couple stating the plentiful activities available in the area over the holidays, that they have never attended in previous years. It states: “But at least they won’t be short of activities given all our Eden by the Beach has to offer.

“I’m sure the youngsters would love to make their first visit to the Granada to see the State Street Ballet’s enchanting Nutcracker and welcome in 2025 with the Santa Barbara Symphony’s New Year’s Eve Pops concert, also at the same splendid auditorium.”

The article finishes with anticipation held by local residents, stating “the community awaits….”.

Due to Harry and Meghan both being estranged from many members of their families, a royal expert has stated Christmas Day is more likely about friends than family for the couple.

Royal expert Jennie Bond told OK! Magazine: “Estranged as Harry and Meghan are from so many members of their respective families, Christmas must be more about friends than family.”

Despite this, Meghan is known to share a close bond with her mum, Doria Ragland, with the expert adding, “But Doria is a constant in their lives, and Meghan spoke recently about how she loved having her mum nearby.”

Meanwhile, back in the UK, Prince William admitted that “no way” is he “ready” for Christmas, as he revealed his family plans in Sandringham.

According to People, he said: “We’ll be in Norfolk, at Sandringham. We’ll be 45 for Christmas. It won’t be quiet, it will be noisy.”

However, it has since been reported that Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson, Princess Beatrice, and Princess Eugenie will be missing from this year’s gathering at Sandringham.

William’s cousins, Princess Beatrice, 36, and Princess Eugenie, 34, are believed to be spending the festive period with their in-laws.

The Royal Family usually exchanges presents on Christmas Eve, and on Christmas Day, they famously walk to the morning service at St. Mary Magdalene.