Meghan Markle's father Thomas Markle has issued a statement following the birth of his royal grandson, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.

The Duchess' strained relationship with her father has been widely reported since Meghan joined the royal clan, with the royal couple reportedly breaking all contact with the 74-year-old after they wed.

Now that Meghan has given birth, Thomas has issued a public statement welcoming Archie, explaining that he is 'proud' the newborn has been born into the royal family.

Thomas Markle and Meghan Markle

In a statement he gave to The Sun, the Duchess' father said: “I’m delighted to hear that mother and child are doing well. I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity, and honour. GOD bless the child and I wish him health and happiness, and my congratulations to my lovely daughter, Duchess Meghan, and Prince Harry, and GOD save the Queen.”

Meanwhile, it has been suggested that Prince Harry and Meghan named their newborn with a special nod to Princess Diana in mind.

People reports that the name Archie is actually a tribute to Diana’s ancestor, Archibald Campbell, 9th Earl of Argyll.

Archibald Campbell lived from 1629 to 1685, and was a Scottish Protestant leader executed for opposing the Roman Catholic James II.

Meanwhile, the name 'Harrison' was chosen as it means “son of Harry”, as well the surname Mountbatten-Windsor belonging to all the children and descendants of Prince Phillip and Queen Elizabeth.

The surname means Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 's son would not be receiving a HRH title.

The origins of the surname can be a source of controversy.  The Duke of Edinburgh was born Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark of the House of Schlewswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg, but adopted the surname Mountbatten after his grandparents as he believed his own wasn't neutral enough.

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