The heart-wrenching incident of an eight-year-old girl falling to her death from a sixth-floor balcony in Portsmouth has left a community in mourning. Minnie Rae Dunn, who lived with her grandmother, was visiting her mother, Rebecca Dunn, when the tragic accident occurred. The balcony, described as cluttered with bin bags and furniture, became the site of a fatal fall that has raised questions about child safety in high-rise living.

During the inquest, Rebecca Dunn expressed profound regret, calling her decision to allow her daughter on the balcony the 'biggest mistake' of her life. The balcony, equipped with a metre-high brick wall and anti-pigeon netting, was not enough to prevent the tragedy. The presence of a pouffe chair, moved from its usual position, was noted as a contributing factor in the incident.

The inquest also touched upon Rebecca Dunn's use of cannabis earlier in the day, which she stated was for her mental health and did not impair her ability to care for her daughter. This aspect of the testimony highlighted the complex interplay between parental responsibility, mental health, and the unforeseen dangers that can arise in everyday environments.

Coroner Jason Pegg concluded that Minnie Rae Dunn's death was a tragic accident. The case serves as a somber reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for safe play areas for children, especially in urban living conditions where outdoor space is limited. The community's thoughts remain with the family during this difficult time.

Recent revelations have shed light on the early reservations held by a close confidante of the late Queen Elizabeth II regarding Meghan Markle's relationship with Prince Harry. Lady Elizabeth Anson, a cousin of the Queen and a respected figure within royal circles, reportedly expressed doubts about the sincerity of Meghan's feelings for Harry, suggesting that the former actress might have 'engineered' their romance. These claims, brought to light by royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith, highlight the tensions that existed within the royal family prior to the couple's 2018 wedding.

According to Bedell Smith's account, Lady Anson, who was known for her close relationship with the Queen and her role as a royal party planner, initially found Meghan to be 'full of charm' and 'intelligent and thoughtful' upon her engagement to Harry. However, as the wedding approached, Lady Anson's perspective shifted, leading her to question whether Meghan was truly in love with Harry or if she had orchestrated their relationship for personal gain. 'We hope but don't quite think she is in love. We think she engineered it all,' Lady Anson is reported to have said.

The biographer also recounts Lady Anson's concerns about the dynamic between Meghan and Harry, noting that Meghan's intelligence and strength could overshadow Harry's more subdued personality. 'Meghan is clearly brighter than Harry, but she has to be careful not to overshadow him,' Lady Anson allegedly remarked. These comments reflect the broader unease within parts of the royal family about the couple's compatibility and the potential challenges their union might bring to the monarchy.

In response to these claims, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has declined to comment, while a source close to the couple dismissed the allegations as 'just gossip.' Nonetheless, these revelations offer a glimpse into the private discussions and concerns that surrounded one of the most talked-about royal weddings in recent history, underscoring the complexities of integrating a Hollywood actress into the centuries-old traditions of the British royal family.