Thomas Markle says he is ‘hurt and upset’ by Meghan and Harry’s move back to Britain

Why Thomas Markle shared his disappointment towards the couple

The Sussexes are due to return later this month and will live in a non-royal residence outside London, with both children already enrolled in British schools.

There is understood to be no change to their status as private individuals and non-working members of the royal family.

They will remain financially independent, and Harry is not expected to take on official duties.

Thomas Markle came out with the statement as he has never met his grandchildren.

The Duchess of Sussex’s estranged father, who has never met Archie, six, or Lilibet, four, spoke out after the couple confirmed they will move back to Britain more than six years after relocating to the United States.

Thomas Markle became estranged from his daughter on the eve of her 2018 wedding.

He has since faced serious health problems, and earlier this year had his left leg amputated in a three-hour “life or death” operation after falling ill at his home in the Philippines.

At the time, Meghan’s spokesperson confirmed she had “reached out” by delivering a letter to her father, though he later said he was “confused” by the reports.

"It has been exceedingly difficult for the Duchess to contact her father privately, despite her efforts over the past several days," said a spokesperson for the Duchess of Sussex.

Mr Markle, who told the Mirror that he learned of the move through the news, remains in the Philippines.