The significance behind Prince William and Duchess Catherine's olive branch birthday message to Meghan Markle

Prince William and Duchess Catherine were among the first to wish Meghan Markle a happy 41st birthday this week.

• Tensions have been high over the years between the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex since the latter left the Royal Family to pursue a new life in America.
• The happy birthday tweet read, "Wishing a happy birthday to The Duchess of Sussex!"
• In other royal news, Kate Middleton's unlikely train toilet gesture that shows her 'character and sense of duty'.

Prince William and Duchess Catherine extended an olive branch to Meghan Markle on her birthday with a sweet tweet, that read, "Wishing a happy birthday to The Duchess of Sussex!"

The message was posted alongside a photo that showed Meghan on the footsteps of St Paul's Cathedral, beaming at the camera.

The picture was taken during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, giving it a special significance as it was the only appearance that Meghan made during the festivities. The fact that they chose this photograph may signify to some that Prince William and Duchess Catherine were applauding her involvement with the family and the special occasion for the Queen. 

Responses to the tweet were divided, with one follower writing, "You only wished Meghan Birthday wishes so you can be entertained by the vile comments left under that . If you meant it you would have closed the comments so people don’t have a chance to abuse her on her Birthday but NO you left them open so can have a laugh. It’s a shame."

While another said, "Happy Birthday To Meghan Mountbatten-Windsor, The Duchess of Sussex, May there always be peace, love and joy in her life.!!"

While the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were the first of the senior royals to wish Meghan a happy birthday from the @KensingtonRoyal Twitter account, shortly afterwards other members of the Royal Family also sent their good wishes.

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, also tweeted their birthday wishes for Meghan in a similarly upbeat post. They wrote on Twitter, "Happy birthday to The Duchess of Sussex!" The tweet was followed by a red balloon emoji.

The tweet was also accompanied by a photograph that was also taken on the day of the service held for the Queen's reign, seemingly showing the importance of Meghan attending that event.