Charles to attend D-Day service as Sarkozy acts

Prince Charles will attend the 65th anniversary commemorations of the D-Day landings in France, Clarence House confirmed today.

Days of public anger at the French government's apparent decision to snub the royal family have led up to president Nicolas Sarkozy's last-minute invitation.

The Queen was not asked to join the official events in Normandy on Saturday, with Paris saying it was the British government's responsibility to decide who would represent the UK.

A Clarence House spokesman said: "The Prince of Wales will be attending the commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normandy at the invitation of President Sarkozy."

Royal insiders dismissed reports that pressure from American president Barack Obama led the French to back down. One well-placed source said: "Prince Charles and the Queen decided it was appropriate for him to attend. Discussions were held directly between Clarence House officials and the French embassy, and the invitation was forthcoming from the embassy this morning.

"No10 was kept closely informed of discussions throughout. But to say President Obama was involved is a red herring. The prince wanted to make this work. He has a very good relationship with President Sarkozy."

It is understood Prince Charles will join Prime Minister Gordon Brown at the main commemoration event at Colville-sur-Mer, which President Sarkozy and President Obama will also attend.

Further details about the prince's visit are expected to be announced by tomorrow morning.