How Patrick Hillery refused an invite to the wedding of Britain's Prince Charles and Diana

Britain's Prince Charles and Princess Diana after their wedding in 1981. Picture: PA Wire

President Patrick Hillery’s decision to decline an invitation to the wedding of Britain's then Prince Charles and Diana Spencer prompted concerns from Government officials.

The invitation was sent to Mr Hillery and his wife for the wedding on July 29 1981 in St Paul’s Cathedral, and requested a reply by June 26.