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  • “As King Charles Turns 76: The Key Support of ‘Daughter He Never Had’ Kate and ‘Rock’ Camilla, While Harry and Meghan Remain Adrift”

    “As King Charles Turns 76: The Key Support of ‘Daughter He Never Had’ Kate and ‘Rock’ Camilla, While Harry and Meghan Remain Adrift”


    As King Charles turns 76, it will be a bittersweet occasion as he contemplates how much has changed within his close family – with some bonds made stronger than ever by a difficult year, while his relationship with his younger son Harry remains, at best, distant.

    Before Charles was King he spent 64 years as the longest-serving heir apparent and Prince of Wales in history.

    During that time the workaholic royal eagerly planned to make an impact on a wide array of causes close to his heart when his time to rule came – from the environment to disadvantaged young people.

    But despite the long wait to serve his country, only 18 months into his reign Charles was diagnosed with cancer in February and began the gruelling process of treatment which limited him at times to an almost Covid-like ‘bubble’.

    However the monarch has been able to rely on his daughter-in-law Kate, who announced her own cancer diagnosis in March, and his wife Queen Camilla for support.

    He already viewed the Princess of Wales as the ‘daughter he never had’ but they have bonded even more deeply over their battle with the disease.

    Meanwhile, he’s relied  on Queen Camilla to step up her public engagements without him – which she’d done with aplomb, despite the fact she’s not a ‘natural’ in the role, according to Princess Anne.

    But other family relationships remain fraught, with his disillusioned son Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle continuing to live in California.

    Here, on the day King Charles turns 76, MailOnline goes inside his relationship with the two pillars who have been supporting him through a brutal year – Princess Kate and Queen Camilla.

    The monarch has been able to rely on his daughter-in-law Princess Kate, who announced her own cancer diagnosis in March, for support. Pictured together at the premiere of No Time To Die in September 2021

    The monarch has been able to rely on his daughter-in-law Princess Kate, who announced her own cancer diagnosis in March, for support. Pictured together at the premiere of No Time To Die in September 2021

    King Charles III, Kate and Princess Charlotte stand on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to watch the RAF flypast during Trooping the Colour in 2024

    King Charles III, Kate and Princess Charlotte stand on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to watch the RAF flypast during Trooping the Colour in 2024

    King Charles III (wearing a kilt made from the King Charles III tartan) and Queen Camilla attend The Braemar Highland Games in September 2024

    King Charles III (wearing a kilt made from the King Charles III tartan) and Queen Camilla attend The Braemar Highland Games in September 2024

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pictured on their quasi royal tour of Bogota in September 2024

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pictured on their quasi royal tour of Bogota in September 2024

    Charles’ growing bond with Catherine as they battle cancer together

    The monarch shares a close bond with his ‘beloved daughter-in-law’ – and their shared health struggles have only ‘cemented’ that special relationship, one well-placed source told The Telegraph recently.

    So much so, Kate appeared to include a special tribute to the King in her moving three-minute video, which was released in September and showed the Princess and Prince William celebrating her recovery alongside their three children.

    In recent times, Charles and Kate’s close bond has regularly been proven, including at Trooping the Colour this summer, when the Princess made her triumphant return to public life by joining the Royal Family for the King’s Birthday Parade in London.

    In a departure from last year, when King Charles stood next to his heir Prince William, this time around, he stood next to Kate.

    This was significant, according to body language expert Judi James, as she explained to FEMAIL at the time: ‘Charles made Kate his centre of attention to signal both how much she is cherished and how grateful he was at her attendance.’

    It has long been thought that the King and the Princess are close thanks to their shared interests in the arts, among other reasons.

    Judi told FEMAIL: ‘Charles has always had an increasingly special relationship with Kate, who he has grown to trust and delight in.

    ‘Here though, that relationship was highlighted to illustrate how those bonds have only deepened and enriched by their bonds of empathy created by their illnesses.’

    Recently, a royal expert claimed that Charles has ‘always had a great respect for Kate’ and would ‘compare notes’ with her on their hospital’s food during their ‘affectionate’ meetings about their respective cancer treatments.

    The pair both received treatment at the London Clinic in Harley Street earlier this year.

    Appearing in the Channel 5 documentary Kate: A Queen for the Future, the Daily Mail’s editor-at-large Richard Kay discussed Charles and Kate’s meetings during their time as patients in the hospital.

    Richard explained: ‘The King actually made a point of going to see Kate and there’s this rather touching story of [Charles] in his dressing gown padding down to his daughter-in-law’s floor.

    ‘They compared notes about the rather good hospital food, how their treatment was going. It was a moment of great affection.’

    The London Clinic’s head chef Paul O’Brien leads a team which provides customised meals for patients, sourcing ingredients from Home Counties farms.

    The then-Duchess of Cambridge and Prince of Wales have been snapped sharing a chuckle on a number of occasions, including during this event at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Stanford Hall in Loughborough in February 2020

    The then-Duchess of Cambridge and Prince of Wales have been snapped sharing a chuckle on a number of occasions, including during this event at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Stanford Hall in Loughborough in February 2020

    Images showing the closeness, such as this photo from the service of thanksgiving for the Queen at St Paul's cathedral on June 2022 make it clear why Charles has several times said that the family is 'lucky' to have Kate

    Images showing the closeness, such as this photo from the service of thanksgiving for the Queen at St Paul’s cathedral on June 2022 make it clear why Charles has several times said that the family is ‘lucky’ to have Kate

    Kate's willingness to get stuck into any task means she has become a well-liked member of The Firm - with family members as well as the public! (Pictured trying to iron artwork onto silk during a visit to the Dulwich Picture Gallery in March 2012)

    Kate’s willingness to get stuck into any task means she has become a well-liked member of The Firm – with family members as well as the public! (Pictured trying to iron artwork onto silk during a visit to the Dulwich Picture Gallery in March 2012)

    Elsewhere in the documentary, The Telegraph’s royal correspondent India McTaggart said King Charles has always valued the Princess of Wales.

    She explained: ‘Charles always had a lot of respect for Catherine and he said that in the wedding toast that he made. He said they were very lucky to have her and it remains true to this day.’

    Later in the documentary, royal expert Robert Jobson said that Kate Middleton plays a crucial role in King Charles’ relationship with three grandchildren.

    The expert said: ‘Catherine is very important in the relationship between Charlotte, George and Louis and the King.

    ‘When William and the King aren’t necessarily on the best of terms, as sometimes fathers and sons are, it’s always Catherine who makes sure that the King, if he wants to see his grandchildren, sees his grandchildren.’

    The King reportedly thinks Kate is doing a ‘wonderful’ job bringing up George, Charlotte and Louis, and gets to spend more time with his son’s family now they live just a few minutes drive away from Windsor Castle.

    Kate is known to have a warm relationship with her father-in-law and has reportedly helped smooth the sometimes fractious relationship between the King and his son, William.

    King Charles and Kate have also shown several public signs of their close relationship over the past few years.

    For instance, the Princess of Wales lovingly called her father-in-law by his family nickname of ‘grandpa’ when she greeted him at a G7 reception in 2021.

    Meanwhile, in April 2021, the then Duchess of Cambridge shared a kiss on the cheek with her grief-stricken father-in-law as they left Prince Philip’s funeral.

    Kate consoled Charles as the pair walked out of St George’s Chapel following the emotional service in memory of the Duke of Edinburgh.

    Photographs show Kate comforting the then Prince of Wales over the loss of his father by putting her hand on his shoulder. She then kissed him on the cheek as they set off from the entrance of the chapel.

    Elsewhere, when greeting one another at engagements, Kate and the King will often share a friendly embrace and pecks on the cheeks.

    At William and Kate’s wedding, Charles movingly described his son’s new wife as the daughter he had never had during the speech and admitted: ‘We are lucky to have her.’

    In a touching speech, the clearly emotional prince paid tribute to his new daughter-in-law – but still found time to crack jokes about his eldest son and his famously thinning hairline.

    Queen Camilla steps up for her husband and finally secures her position as respected consort

    Although she was once considered to be one of the most unpopular women in Britain, this year has seen Queen Camilla’s warmth, humour and strong sense of duty largely win over any remaining critics.

    Amid the King’s cancer battle, Her Majesty, who turned 77 in July, kept the Royal Family united and stepped up her duties, standing in for her husband as he underwent treatment.

    Such is her warmth and unquestionable dedication to her duties, she’s been nicknamed ‘the nation’s grandmother’, winning praise from well-wishers and members of the Firm alike for her steadfast presence amid a turbulent time.

    She has shown her commitment to her role as the King’s consort many times throughout the year, with her even arriving in Guernsey in July sporting a bandaged ankle after suffering a ‘slight sprain’.

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart The London Clinic after Charles underwent a procedure for an enlarged prostate. It would be announced shortly after that he had cancer

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart The London Clinic after Charles underwent a procedure for an enlarged prostate. It would be announced shortly after that he had cancer

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla greet fans at Sydney Opera House on October 22, 2024 during their Australia tour

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla greet fans at Sydney Opera House on October 22, 2024 during their Australia tour

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend day four of Royal Ascot in June 2024

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend day four of Royal Ascot in June 2024

    But she refused to let the injury stop her from joining Charles on the second day of their two-day tour of the Channel Islands.

    It wasn’t the first time the Queen’s determination to play her part has been on full display – with this year completing Camilla’s remarkable transformation from understudy to centre-stage star.

    No one in her orbit – let alone the lady herself – dreamed that she would one day be crowned at her husband’s side (with the blessing and approval of Queen Elizabeth, no less), let alone stand in for His Majesty at prestigious events.

    But these past months have seen her prove her place in the Royal Family, after she found herself, to all intents and purposes, the King’s front of house.

    Buckingham Palace announced in February that the monarch had been diagnosed with cancer and would be taking a break from his public-facing duties as he began treatment.

    Straight away, Camilla, who has been credited with keeping the ‘royal show on the road’, was on duty almost every day, combining back-to-back engagements with supporting her husband.

    She led the Firm at the service of thanksgiving for the late King Constantine of Greece in February, stood in for the King at the annual Royal Maundy service in March and also met the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, at Clarence House.

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart the Macmillan Cancer Centre on April 30 after their first engagement following Charles' cancer diagnosis

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart the Macmillan Cancer Centre on April 30 after their first engagement following Charles’ cancer diagnosis

    She also undertook a solo two-day visit to Belfast in Northern Ireland in March for a series of engagements that had been arranged before the King was diagnosed with cancer.

    It was previously reported that Camilla was ‘proud’ to take on more duties amid Charles and the Princess of Wales receiving their treatment for cancer.

    The Queen is ‘resilient’ and will do anything that is asked of her to help the Royal Family, aides reportedly told The Telegraph – despite Her Majesty in past describing royal duties as being ‘tiring’ to carry out.

    ‘Very tiring,’ she admitted during an audience with the Sultan of Brunei’s wife, Queen Saleha, six years ago. ‘Every day, we’re non-stop. It’s more tiring as you get older. I keep trying to tell everybody that I’m not as young as I used to be, and have to slow down.’

    But she has been the ‘steady hand on the tiller’ amid the King’s cancer diagnosis, a former royal butler said.

    Speaking to GB News earlier in the year, Paul Burrell remarked that the monarch’s wife is the ‘guiding force’ for the family, as well as being the one behind Charles’s openness regarding his health.

    ‘I think she is the stabiliser,’ he told the outlet. ‘I think she has that touch. I think she’s able to reach people in a way the King can’t and I think she’s taught him a lot in the last few years about monarchy and how to be King.

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla watch The King's Parade under torrential rain during a visit to Jersey on July 15, 2024

    King Charles III and Queen Camilla watch The King’s Parade under torrential rain during a visit to Jersey on July 15, 2024

    Queen Camilla and King Charles III attend the Order Of The Garter Service at Windsor Castle on June 17, 2024

    Queen Camilla and King Charles III attend the Order Of The Garter Service at Windsor Castle on June 17, 2024

    ‘Isn’t that odd really, that she should come up through the ranks and be so supportive and such a stabilising influence in our modern-day Royal Family.’

    Meanwhile, it’s not the first time Camilla has been praised for her ability to step up to the task when times get tough.

    Her straight-talking sister-in-law Princess Anne said Camilla is ‘not a natural’ at the role – but she ‘does it really well’ and ‘provides that change of speed and tone, that’s equally important’.

    It’s a stark contrast to how Camilla was viewed in the early years of her and Charles’s relationship – with even the late Queen initially ‘wanting nothing to do with her’.

    Just 12 months after the crash in Paris in which Princess Diana was killed, Charles went to see his mother, looking for approval and support for his relationship with Camilla, then Mrs Parker Bowles.

    It was not a happy meeting. As a highly placed royal confidante told The Daily Mail then: ‘The Queen told her son she never wanted to talk about that wicked woman, and wanted nothing to do with her.’

    However, the late monarch personally endorsed ‘Queen Camilla’ in the end, accepting Charles’s former mistress as a respected member of the Firm.

    Queen Camilla met the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, at Clarence House in February

    Royal expert Joe Little, of Majesty Magazine, previously remarked: ‘I think only now are people appreciating the true worth of Queen Camilla.’

    Meanwhile, one royal retainer, who has witnessed many of the family’s twists and turns over the years, told The Daily Mail’s Royal Editor Rebecca English earlier this year that they are genuinely glad to see Camilla’s diligence and sense of duty recognised at long last.

    ‘She’s been an absolute trooper, really she has,’ they said. ‘She just gets up and goes out there, doing exactly what’s asked of her with a smile on her face.

    ‘I always think you see the best of people at the worst of times, and I really hope people realise how true that is here.’

    Another member of their circle said: ‘She’s absolutely out there leading from the front.’

    Dame Joanna Lumley couldn’t have agreed more; the national treasure was one of many queuing up to sing Her Majesty’s praises at a Clarence House reception to mark three years of Camilla’s phenomenally successful book club, The Queen’s Reading Room, in March.

    ‘They [the Royal Family] are all extremely dutiful. It’s like the theatre – if someone is ill, someone steps into their place, the understudy keeps the show going,’ she said.

    ‘She is the epitome of professionalism and public service. Everyone thinks she should be blubbing in a corner, but this is not what these people are made of. And it’s something we should aspire to.

    Queen Camilla gets a hug from Rebecca Tessinari, 3, during a visit to the newly opened Meadows Community Centre in Cambridge on February 2, 2024

    Queen Camilla gets a hug from Rebecca Tessinari, 3, during a visit to the newly opened Meadows Community Centre in Cambridge on February 2, 2024

    ‘If you sit alone feeling sorry for yourself you will feel sad and tragic. But if you get up and do something with a smile, then you feel better. ‘

    Best-selling thriller writer, Harlan Coben, agreed. ‘She’s a keeper, as we say in America,’ he enthused.

    Meanwhile, the Queen further won over the hearts of the nation this year with her emotional display at commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

    Camilla did not shy away from showing emotion as she joined Charles (who has returned to public duties), the Prince of Wales, UK politicians and veterans at major events in Portsmouth and Ver-sur-Mer in June.

    The occasion was inevitably sombre, as shown by Her Majesty shedding a tear when listening to a veteran recount the horror of losing his best friend on the beaches in Normandy 80 years ago.

    But amid the heavy and deeply moving testimonials, Camilla also shared heartfelt moments with multiple former soldiers, who smiled and enjoyed light conversation with the Queen.

    So, from her displays of warmth and emotion, to her loyalty to her husband and sense of duty, Camilla’s year as the Royal Family’s leading lady has no doubt secured her position as a respected consort and comforting ‘grandmother figure’ to the nation.

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to live out in California as their royal insignificance grows

    In contrast to his sister-in-law and his stepmother, Prince Harry has remained firmly on the outside of his father’s support network.

    Alongside his wife Meghan Markle, the pair have continued to live in increasingly growing insignificance in the celebrity enclave of Montecito in California.

    After hearing about his father’s shock cancer diagnosis in February he flew to London for a brief 45-minute meeting with Charles.

    The King had called him personally to tell him the devastating news and the Duke immediately jumped on a plane so he could get to the UK as soon as possible.

    It was hoped seemingly in vain that Harry’s return to Britain would help heal wounds with King Charles and be a chance to reach out to his William amid years of strained relations.

    In contrast to his sister-in-law and his stepmother, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have remained firmly on the outside of his father's support network. Pictured together in 2018

    In contrast to his sister-in-law and his stepmother, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have remained firmly on the outside of his father’s support network. Pictured together in 2018

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle video message at the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Violence Against Children in Colombia

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle video message at the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Violence Against Children in Colombia

    But the Duke did not see his brother William or sister-in-law Kate, who at that time was recovering from her abdominal surgery and on extended leave.

    Although very short, it was their first formal meeting in person since the late Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022.

    The prince did attend Charles’s coronation at Westminster Abbey in May last year but was not seen interacting with the newly-crowned King and Queen.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex abandoned royal duties in early 2020 to live in the US.

    Harry has been critical of his family in TV interviews and his book, Spare, which was published last year.

    The bombshell book featured staggering insights into the prince’s relationship with his father and brother.

    Harry has barely spoken with his father since the death of Queen Elizabeth.

    In Spare, Harry had revealed that Charles had urged his warring sons: ‘Please boys, don’t make my final years a misery.’

    But it seems despite his cancer, Charles’ sons have been unable to make amends, with them having reportedly not haven spoken in several years.

    Meanwhile it is the women in Charles’ life, Princess Kate and Queen Camilla, who have stepped up to support him in his time of need.

  • 1 MINUTE AGO: Princess Catherine finally confirms what we thought all along

    1 MINUTE AGO: Princess Catherine finally confirms what we thought all along

    The Princess of Wales, updated formally to confirm what admirers had long suspected. Now the Brisbane-born royal and her grace, dedication and poise is addressing a topic that has long been speculated by the public — once-and-for-all.

     

     

     

    In what felt more like a promise of things to come than just an offhanded comment, Catherine created a stir amongst reporters today as she attended — under private engagement rules not for photographic publication — her annual general meeting with The Place2Be. While she did not delve into specifics, her words left no doubt that she is prepared to take on a more pivotal role alongside Prince William.

    “For years, there’s been so much speculation about what Catherine truly envisions for her role in the royal family,” shared a royal insider. “Today, she left no room for doubt—she is ready to be a cornerstone of the monarchy’s future.”

    This announcement aligns with recent reports highlighting Catherine’s increased responsibilities, from representing the Crown at key events to her charitable initiatives that have made a global impact. Many believe her confirmation signals an era where Catherine will be front and center, helping to modernize and guide the monarchy through a rapidly changing world.

    Fans of the Princess of Wales have taken to social media to express their admiration, with many celebrating her as a symbol of stability and inspiration. “We always knew she was destined for greatness,” one supporter wrote.

    As the royal family faces ongoing challenges, Catherine’s declaration offers a beacon of hope for those who look to her as a leader for the next generation. It’s clear that the Princess of Wales is not only ready to rise to the occasion but to redefine what it means to be a modern royal.

  • Meghan Markle Furious After Sophie Wessex Claims Queen Elizabeth Never Met Lili

    Meghan Markle Furious After Sophie Wessex Claims Queen Elizabeth Never Met Lili

    Meghan Markle Furious After Sophie Wessex Claims Queen Elizabeth Never Met Lili
    Meghan Markle’s Return to the UK: A Fight for Her Children’s Legacy Amid Royal Drama

     

    What would you do if your children’s legacy was at stake? Meghan Markle might be pondering this very question as she reportedly plans a pivotal trip back to the UK. At the heart of her journey are her children, Archie Harrison and Lilibet Diana, whose royal titles now hang in the balance.

    This high-stakes visit comes on the heels of a controversial decision by the British Parliament to revoke the royal titles of Prince Harry and Meghan’s children. While King Charles holds the final say, Meghan’s return signals her determination to secure her children’s place in the royal legacy. But will her efforts sway the monarch, or does this mark another step in the royal family’s move away from the Sussexes?

    Imagine waking up to news that your children’s royal titles are at risk. That’s the reality Meghan and Harry now face. British Parliament recently passed a motion to revoke Archie and Lilibet’s titles, a decision that has sparked widespread debate.

    Critics argue that royal titles should come with corresponding duties, not just perks. With Harry and Meghan residing in California and no longer fulfilling royal responsibilities, many Members of Parliament (MPs) felt the titles were unwarranted. The motion passed with a significant majority, signaling a shift in how the monarchy approaches non-working royals.

    For Meghan, this is not just a matter of protocol—it’s deeply personal.

    Without their titles, Archie and Lilibet stand to lose more than prestige. The titles connect them to their British heritage and solidify their place in royal history.

    Is this unprecedented?

    While royal titles have been revoked in the past, it is rare for such actions to involve children so young. As the dust settles, all eyes are on King Charles, whose decision will ultimately determine the outcome.

    Meghan Markle’s Mission: A Mother’s Fight or Strategic Play?

    Meghan’s reported return to the UK is being framed as a fight for her children’s future. But is this a genuine act of maternal determination or a calculated move to reshape the Sussex narrative?

    Meghan has never shied away from standing up for her family. From speaking openly about mental health to addressing racial inequality, she has consistently championed her loved ones’ well-being. Sources suggest she plans to emphasize the significance of Archie and Lilibet’s titles as a connection to their royal lineage.

    Critics, however, view this trip as a tactical maneuver. Securing the children’s titles could potentially garner public and royal sympathy, shifting the Sussexes’ public image after years of tension.

    As the ultimate decision-maker, King Charles must balance his duties as a monarch with his role as a father.

    The British public remains divided on the Sussexes. While some sympathize with Meghan and Harry, others view their actions as a betrayal. Supporting Parliament’s decision could reinforce the monarchy’s modernization efforts but risks further alienating his youngest son and grandchildren.

    Charles has long struggled to navigate his dual roles. He might opt for a compromise, allowing Archie and Lilibet to retain their titles for ceremonial purposes. However, Meghan’s visit could influence his decision in unexpected ways.

    The fate of Archie and Lilibet’s titles could redefine how the monarchy treats non-working royals.

    If Meghan succeeds, Archie and Lilibet will retain their titles, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the Sussexes and the royal family.

    If Charles upholds Parliament’s decision, the Sussexes may find themselves further estranged, with Archie and Lilibet losing their royal ties—a move that could impact their sense of identity.

    What to Expect from Meghan’s Visit

    Meghan’s return to the UK will undoubtedly attract global attention.

    High-Stakes Meetings: Meghan is likely to meet with King Charles and senior royal advisors to make her case.

     

    Media Frenzy: Every move will be scrutinized, fueling debates and headlines.
    Diplomatic Challenges: The outcome could either rebuild bridges or deepen divisions within the royal family.
    The Bigger Picture: What This Saga Says About the Modern Monarchy

     

    This controversy highlights the evolving challenges facing the British monarchy.

    Should royal titles be based on lineage, or should they require active participation in royal duties? Decisions like these will shape the monarchy’s relevance in the modern era.

    King Charles’s choice will set a precedent for how non-working royals are treated. It could also influence the future of Prince William’s children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, as they navigate their own roles within the royal family.

    The media’s portrayal of this drama plays a significant role in shaping public opinion.

    UK tabloids often cast Meghan in a negative light, framing her actions as self-serving. Her visit will likely be scrutinized through a lens of skepticism.

    In contrast, American outlets often paint Meghan and Harry as victims of an outdated institution. This disparity highlights the divide in public perception between the UK and the US.

    At its core, this is a story of loyalty, identity, and the future of a centuries-old institution.

    Private meetings could pave the way for reconciliation, offering a chance to mend fractured relationships.

    Deep-seated grievances and relentless media scrutiny make meaningful dialogue challenging.

    Meghan’s return to the UK marks a critical chapter in royal history. Whether she can convince King Charles to preserve her children’s titles remains uncertain. However, the outcome will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the Sussexes and the monarchy as a whole

  • Victoria Beckham cuts a stylish figure in a red jumper and brown trousers as she heads to her Dover Street store in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari

    Victoria Beckham cuts a stylish figure in a red jumper and brown trousers as she heads to her Dover Street store in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari

    Victoria Beckham was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13.

    The fashion designer, 50, meant business as she pulled up to her Dover Street store  in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi.

    The designer, 50, cut a chic figure in a red roll-neck jumper as she took a trip to her store in Dover Street, London.

    Victoria paired her look with smart brown trousers and toted her belongings in a burgundy shoulder bag, all from her own fashion line.

    Posh accessorised with a pair of black sunglasses, a burgundy belt and a gold Breitling watch.

    Victoria walked out of her store in high spirits and made her way to her luxurious motor.

    Victoria Beckham was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13
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    Victoria Beckham was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13

    The designer, 50, cut a chic figure in a red roll-neck jumper as she took a trip to her store in Dover Street, London
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    The designer, 50, cut a chic figure in a red roll-neck jumper as she took a trip to her store in Dover Street, London

    The fashion designer, 50, meant business as she pulled up to her Dover Street store in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi
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    The fashion designer, 50, meant business as she pulled up to her Dover Street store in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi

    The wife of David Beckham also made sure to keep her social media followers up to date with her day as she shared a video of her purchasing a new belt from her store.

    She said to the camera: ‘So I’m here in 36 Dover Street doing a little bit of a shopping.

    ‘Just bought this new belt. A little tiny B Frame Belt which I’m obsessed with. My new red sweater, and my pants.’

    Her outing comes just days after she admitted she ‘cares less’ about the idea of being famous now.

    Victoria shot to fame alongside Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Melanie C as part of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s.

    They became the best-selling girl group of all time, and Victoria later had a brief solo career before going on into the world of fashion.

    But the star – who is also known for her marriage to footballer David Beckham – recently admitted that the idea of fame doesn’t really appeal now.

    She told Harper’s Bazaar magazine: ‘I suppose it used to be fun to go out and be chased by paparazzi walking down Bond Street – and you would dress knowing you were going to get that. I don’t want that anymore.

    Victoria Beckham shares glimpse of new outfit while shopping

    She toted her belongings in a burgundy shoulder bag from her own fashion line
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    Victoria paired her look with smart brown trousers
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    Victoria paired her look with smart brown trousers and toted her belongings in a burgundy shoulder bag from her own fashion line

    i She drove away in her Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi, which retail for £227,000
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    i She drove away in her Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi, which retail for £227,000

    Victoria accessorised with a pair of black sunglasses, a burgundy belt and a gold Breitling watch
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    Victoria accessorised with a pair of black sunglasses, a burgundy belt and a gold Breitling watch

    The beauty walked out of her store in high spirits and made her way to her luxurious motor
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    The beauty walked out of her store in high spirits and made her way to her luxurious motor

    Victoria leaving her store in London
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    Victoria leaving her store in London

    The wife of David Beckham also made sure to keep her social media followers up to date with her day as she shared a video of her purchasing a new belt from her store
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    The wife of David Beckham also made sure to keep her social media followers up to date with her day as she shared a video of her purchasing a new belt from her store

    Victoria was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13 (pictured earlier this week)
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    Victoria was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13 (pictured earlier this week)

    ‘I’ve been doing this too long. I suppose I did when I was growing up but, nowadays, there’s just too much going on; too busy; too many kids to worry about.

    ‘I woke up at 50, and I gave a s*** less.’

    Victoria has Brooklyn, 25, Romeo, 22, Cruz, 19, as well as daughter old Harper with him, and her eldest has recently spoken out about being a nepo baby.

    Brooklyn told Grazia: ‘Obviously I am one. But I couldn’t help how I was born, at all.’

    While he understands why the public can feel irked by nepo babies, Brooklyn said he tries to ignore the ‘rubbish’ people say rather than dwell on it.

    He added: ‘There’s always going to be people that say rubbish. But as long as you do something that makes you happy and you’re kind to people, that’s all that matters.’

    Victoria shot to fame alongside Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Melanie C as part of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s but recently admitted that the appeal of fame had worn off
    +16

    Victoria shot to fame alongside Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Melanie C as part of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s but recently admitted that the appeal of fame had worn off

    Victoria Beckham shares behind the scenes look at her make up routine

    ‘I’m always gonna get it, no matter what I do. And I’m fine with that. It makes me work harder, because I’m like, I’m gonna prove these people wrong.’

    Victoria recently named her latest handbag after her favourite restaurant, the Michelin-starred Dorian in Notting Hill.

    Described as this year’s ‘It’ bag, the Dorian – priced from £590 for a ‘nano’ version and £1,250 for a croc embossed leather style – is already a favourite among celebrities, including US actress Sofia Vergara.

    With its clean lines and elegant shape, it is unlikely to have been worn by its namesake, however – the flamboyant Dorien Green from TV show Birds Of A Feather, played by actress Lesley Joseph.

    Victoria was spotted at Dorian again recently when she enjoyed a three-hour dinner date with hair stylist Ken Paves.

    The Beckham family also popped in last month with son Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz, 29, while the couple were visiting London from Los Angeles.

    Victoria poses with her Dorian handbag. It costs from £590 for a 'nano' version and £1,250 for a croc embossed leather style
    +16

    Victoria poses with her Dorian handbag. It costs from £590 for a ‘nano’ version and £1,250 for a croc embossed leather style

    Victoria Beckham visits her favourite restaurant so often that there is a parking space reserved for her. (Dorian Bistro in Notting Hill)
    +16

    Victoria Beckham visits her favourite restaurant so often that there is a parking space reserved for her. (Dorian Bistro in Notting Hill)

    A source close to the family said: ‘Victoria absolutely loves Dorian. She loves the menu and the ambience.

    ‘She, David and the kids go there for all kinds of occasions but also just for a low-key dinner.

    ‘It’s their favourite. There is also a space usually saved for them to park outside if they drive there.’

  • Princess Diana’s Iconic 1991 British Vogue Cover Happened After a Nudge from Supermodel Linda Evangelista

    Princess Diana’s Iconic 1991 British Vogue Cover Happened After a Nudge from Supermodel Linda Evangelista

    After two failed cover attempts, the former Princess of Wales agreed to move forward “without seeking permission from the palace” this time

    Diana, Princess of Wales visits the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital; ichel Klein shows his women's 1992 spring-summer ready-to-wear line in Paris, Model Linda Evangelista

    Princess Diana visits the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London on July 1, 1992 and Linda Evangelista modeling French designer Michel Klein’s women’s 1992 spring-summer ready-to-wear line in Paris. Photo: Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images;  julio donoso/Sygma via Getty Images

    There’s a story behind every magazine cover — and the December 1991 issue of British Vogue featuring Princess Diana is no exception.

    How the cover came to be, as well as the late Princess of Wales’ friendship with then-British Vogue editor-in-chief Liz Tilberis, is covered in a recent episode of the podcast Blow Up: When Liz Tilberis Transformed Bazaar, a six-part series that examines the woman who went on to helm Harper’s Bazaar before her death in 1999 from ovarian cancer.

    Vogue Magazine December 1991 - Princess Diana

    Princess Diana on the cover of the December 1991 issue of “British Vogue,” as shot by photographer Patrick Demarchelier.Patrick Demarchelier/Vogue Magazine

    The Crown Star Elizabeth Debicki Recreates Princess Diana’s Iconic 1991 Vogue Cover for Radio Times

    Long before that, though, was Diana’s 1991 British Vogue cover, which Tilberis orchestrated. The cover happened after two previous failed attempts, both of which were shot down by the palace, according to the podcast. But, when it came to the cover that finally took — shot by photographer Patrick Demarchelier and featuring a closeup of Diana with a short haircut, long nails and wearing a black turtleneck — none other than supermodel Linda Evangelista might have been the one to push it over the line and actually make Tilberis’ long-held dream happen.

    In the fall of 1991 at a reception for the British Fashion Council Awards, Princess Diana asked Tilberis to introduce her to Evangelista.

    “Diana had always wanted to meet Linda,” said Patrick Jephson, Diana’s former private secretary. “She was intrigued by the supermodels, because those girls were the superstars of the time. And she was intrigued as to how they coped with the fame, you know?”

    Gianni Versace lors d'un défilé de mode en 1991

    Left to right, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Gianni Versace, Claudia Schiffer and Carla Bruni in 1991. Gamma-Rapho via Getty

    Diana, after all, did know a thing or two about being famous. When they met, “I think she asked us, Christy and Naomi, if we, if our diet was, like, McDonald’s and cigarettes,” Evangelista said. “At that point, it was whatever I wanted to eat, you know?”

    Tilberis and Princess Diana’s hairstylist Sam McKnight hatched a plan for the four of them to have breakfast together at Joe’s Cafe, owned by a friend of Tilberis and attached to Joseph’s of London. “It was very trendy in Chelsea, where all the cool stores are,” McKnight said.

    They wanted somewhere “where we can talk, we can all chat and giggle,” McKnight added. “And we don’t want anyone to see us. It was going to be a private thing. So Liz arranged for them to open the cafe early. Now, the princess would have been absolutely mortified if she had thought they had opened up just for her. So they had to kind of pretend they were open.”

    Princess Diana & Liz Tilberis Attend The Council Of Fashion Designers Of America Gala Ball In New York.

    Princess Diana and Liz Tilberis attend the Council of Fashion Designers of America Gala Ball in New York City.Antony Jones/UK Press via Getty Images

    To make it not look like they had closed down just for Princess Diana, Tilberis and McKnight cast attractive people to sit at the tables of the cafe and pretend to be patrons — though they were really the staff of Joseph’s.  They were asked to sit at the cafe’s tables, “and so it looked like it was fancy,” McKnight said. (Princess Diana didn’t know about this ruse, nor did Evangelista, the latter revealed in the episode.)

    “I was nervous because I really loved her and I respected her,” Evangelista said of the former Princess of Wales. “And then you meet her. I just remember how lovely she was. And we had some giggles, and she was, like, very open and honest.”

    McKnight added of the sit-down, “There was no sort of world-changing chat. It was chit chat, you know — it was kind of giggling and gossiping.”

    The secret mission of the cafe meetup, McKnight said, was for Tilberis to convince Diana to let her use the closeup shot taken by Demarchelier for the December 1991 cover.

    LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - NOVEMBER 01: Gallery staff views a photographer of Diana, Princess of Wales for British Vogue, December 1990 by photographer Patrick Demarchelier at the exhibition on November 01, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Ray Tang/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

    A photograph of Princess Diana shot by Patrick Demarchelier that was turned down for the December 1990 cover of ‘British Vogue’ by the palace.

    Tilberis had tried two times before to get Diana to appear on the cover of British Vogue. The first, an informal shot photographed by Demarchelier, was a black-and-white image of Diana playing with her sons Prince William and Prince Harry in a barn at the family’s country home, Highgrove. The palace said no to the cover. Later, British Vogue wanted to put a more formal shot of Diana in a tiara on its cover. The palace, again, said no.

    “There was no explanation, but Liz had a feeling it was a way of reining in the princess, whose restlessness was becoming publicly apparent,” Blow Up co-host Cynthia True said.

    At last, in Joe’s Cafe, it was an urge from Evangelista that pushed Diana over the line. By the end of their breakfast date, Diana said yes to appearing on the cover, “and told Liz to move forward with the chosen photo without seeking permission from the palace,” True said. “She would handle it.”

    “And Liz got a magnificent cover,” McKnight said on the show. “And she did not force, she waited for it to organically happen, you know?”

    Princess Diana THE CFDA AWARDS PARTY IN NEW YORK

    Princess Diana speaking in January 1995 at the CFDA party in New York City.Pool Photograph/Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images

    The December 1991 edition of British Vogue went on to become a bestseller, and featured Princess Diana on the cover of the magazine for the first time in 10 years. The following month, Tilberis was named editor-in-chief at Harper’s Bazaar.

    Her friendship with Princess Diana certainly didn’t end after Tilberis finally landed her coveted Princess of Wales cover, though. The two met because British Vogue editors advised the Princess of Wales on her official wardrobe, and by the time Tilberis became editor-in-chief of the magazine in 1987 after the departure of Anna Wintour for Vogue’s American iteration, she and Diana were friends who had lunch together frequently, bonding over both being mothers of young boys.

    The two took part in what the podcast called  “marathon phone calls” after Tilberis moved to New York City to accept the job at Harper’s Bazaar in 1992. “Liz was, I would say, kind of like a big sister-ish figure, a big sister that accepted Diana as she was,” Jephson said.

    After Tilberis’ ovarian cancer diagnosis in 1993, according to the episode, Princess Diana was one of the first to call when she was out of the hospital and stayed in touch with her almost every day, either by phone or via a handwritten note transmitted by fax.

    “She called a lot and they would have a lot of chats,” said Tilberis’ former assistant Stephanie Albertson. “That was a very real friendship, and I remember once she called and the message was, ‘I’m just watching a movie with the kids.’ And what did she say? She said something like, ‘I’m sitting in bed eating popcorn with the kids — just have her call me back.’ ”

    Princess Diana at Prince William first day at Eton

    Princess Diana at Eton for Prince William’s first day there on Sept. 6, 1995. Tom Wargacki/WireImage

    As Tilberis underwent chemotherapy, “Diana distracted her with light gossip about mutual acquaintances in London, and Liz ignored the frequent call waiting beeps,” according to True. “ ‘What’s that?’ the princess asked. When Liz explained, Diana sounded relieved. In England, she said it would be MI5. The Ministry of Intelligence was rumored at that time to have bugged the princess’ phone.”

    According to Jephson, “A lot of what I saw in the friendship between Liz and Diana was an acceptance of there being no need to be anything other than yourself. And for Diana, that was refreshing and different and rare, because she didn’t have the kind of husband or partner that luckier people have in whose presence she could relax and be herself. So when she had a friend like Liz, who didn’t expect her to be anything more than she was, who didn’t want her to be anything other than happy and relaxed, this was, I think, a weight lifted from her shoulders.”

    For Tilberis’ part, according to True, she said there were very few people, apart from Diana, who knew how to talk to someone with a cancer diagnosis.

    Princess Diana & Liz Tilberis RECEPTION: 50 YEARS OF DIOR AT THE MET. MUSEUM

    Princess Diana and Liz Tilberis attending the 1996 Met Gala.Stephane Cardinale/Sygma via Getty Images

    Princess Diana Refused to Wear Pink and ‘Ripped the Corset’ from Met Gala Dress, John Galliano Says

    When it came to photographing Diana for British Vogue, Tilberis felt that previous portraits of her for the magazine were too formal, failing to capture the warm, funny woman Tilberis knew so well. They shared a sense of humor, and at one of their many lunches, when Tilberis complimented Diana on her Chanel loafers, Diana answered dryly that the entwined Cs of the fashion house’s logo stood for Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles, who were by now known to be romantically involved, something Princess Diana was perhaps more aware of than most anyone.

    Can’t get enough of PEOPLE’s Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

    When Tilberis won an award at the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Princess Diana honored her friend in a speech in New York City in January 1995. Tilberis then accompanied Princess Diana at what would become her one and only Met Gala appearance, which took place in December 1996 with the newly divorced Diana wearing Dior. Though it was widely known that Tilberis was ill, absolutely no one would have expected that Diana would die before her dear friend, losing her life as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident on Aug. 31, 1997 at just 36 years old — two years before Tilberis herself died of cancer at 51 years old on April 21, 1999.

  • Royal Family Christmas meal rules – from banned ingredients to bizarre rituals

    Royal Family Christmas meal rules – from banned ingredients to bizarre rituals

    Dozens of turkeys, hams, cakes, cheeses, mince pies, vintage champagne and fine wines – no corners are cut when the shopping list for the royal Christmas get-together is compiled. Queen Elizabeth II’s former chef Darren McGrady catered for Christmas at Sandringham frequently in the 80s and 90s and spoke to OK! about his time running the kitchen.

    “They’ve always been very traditional, so the royals eat the same things every year. They’re no different to most families in not wanting to mess around with the food at Christmas,” he explans. The festive feasting has always begun on Christmas Eve, with the family arriving at Sandringham in time for an afternoon tea of dainty sandwiches and cake.

    royals
    The Royal Family will eat Christmas dinner at Sandringham House 
    Image:
    Getty Images)

    After the customary exchange of presents, the evening revolves around a formal banquet in the dining room. Assisted by five other chefs, Darren would cater for up to 20 of the senior royals, as well as the children and about 100 staff members.

    “For the Christmas Eve dinner we’d serve a fish course, salad and then often venison from the Sandringham estate,” he tells us. “Dessert was typically a tarte tatin or chocolate perfection pie, which Queen Elizabeth loved. Chocolate was one of her biggest weaknesses.”

    The drinks offering is a carefully planned ritual, too. “They would always start with gin and Dubonnet in the early evening, and then the Yeoman of the Royal Cellar would serve champagnes and fine wines at dinner.”

    queen
    The royals would raise their glasses during the festive season 
    Image:
    AFP via Getty Images)
    During mealtimes, a series of rules are rigorously observed. Darren recalls, “No one sat down until the Queen came in, and nobody began eating until she did. As soon as she put her knife and fork down, that course was over and we’d start clearing away. Dinner service is run to military precision.” He believes certain regulations are likely to remain in place now King Charles is at the head of the table.

    “I’ve done state banquets for many US presidents – including Reagan and Clinton – and the same rules apply,” he explains. “Although we may now have a more modern King, I think things will still be formal and Charles will keep a lot of the customs going.”

    After dinner on Christmas Eve, Darren had another important role. “As soon as I’d served the coffee, I’d rush upstairs and change because I was resident DJ for the staff disco, and I’d spin the decks from 10pm until 1am. One year, Princess Diana turned up with Princess Margaret’s daughter Sarah Armstrong-Jones!”

    royals
    The former royal chef revealed details of how the royals celebrate Christmas 
    Image:
    Bettmann Archive)
    Of course, Christmas Day is the main event, and for the royals it tends to begin with a cooked breakfast for the men, with the women eating continental breakfasts in their bedrooms while getting ready for the day ahead.

    Revealing some of the family quirks, Darren says, “The Queen Mother would insist on bringing her own china, and Charles always liked to have a pair of freshly poached plums from Highgrove, served in a little finger bowl. He’d also have a box of assorted muesli, dried fruits and honey.”

    The family are seated for Christmas lunch at 1.15pm sharp, with local Norfolk-reared turkey the star attraction. “They’d always have roast turkey and chestnut stuffing, with mashed and roast potatoes, plus lots of vegetables like parsnips and carrots.”

    Certain ingredients were off-limits. “We never used garlic when cooking for the Queen – it was considered antisocial,” says Darren. “We had to avoid strong onions too, because the monarch doesn’t want to be breathing that on people.”

    queen
    The Royal Family’s Christmas is surprisingly ordinary 
    Image:
    Getty Images)Don’t Miss
    In all, six turkeys would be prepped and cooked. “Two for the royal dining room, one for the nursery and three more for the staff dining room,” says Darren. It was non-stop for us in the kitchen from 6am until around 2.30pm, when the chefs sat down and ate lunch. We’d finish just in time to watch the Queen’s speech.”

    Darren was not a fan of seeing the royal children – then comprising Zara and Peter Phillips, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and Princes William and Harry – eating in the nursery without their parents.

    He says, “It’s just royal tradition, and what they did whenever the Queen was present. But in later years I think that’s why William and Kate chose to eat Christmas lunch at Anmer Hall, because they didn’t want to be separated from their children.”

    royals
    The Royal Family have many special Christmas traditions 
    Image:
    Tim Graham/Getty Images)
    While many of the traditions are likely to be the same today, Charles may be even stricter on the sourcing of produce than in previous years. “The King will definitely insist on organic food,” Darren says. “He’ll also want local, indigenous produce which is in season rather than shipped in. So there will be no strawberries on the menu on Christmas Day.”

    Though today’s royals are likely to have individual dietary requirements, that was not the case for Darren and his team. “In those days, nobody wanted gluten-free, dairy-free, or lactose-free.

    “The attitude was that you were dining with the Queen, so you had whatever was on your plate. If you didn’t like it, you didn’t eat. It was as simple as that.” Most festive feasts end with a flaming Christmas pudding, and the royals typically enjoy their own bespoke variety.

    royal
    The Royal Family have many special Christmas traditions 
    Image:
    Buckingham Palace via Getty Imag)

    “The puddings were made in London before we went up to Sandringham, which meant we were well ahead of the game,” says Darren. “Because everything was always so organised, it was never a stressful experience.”

    After all the eating, the royals like to walk around the estate in order to sharpen the appetite for afternoon tea – which includes sandwiches, mince pies and plenty of naughty treats. “The whole family used to devour our chocolate Yule log, and we’d make three Christmas cakes too,” reveals Darren.

    As if that weren’t enough, an evening spread of cold meats, chutneys, cheeses and biscuits is served, too. “Harrods were the royal purveyors then, and they’d send a huge hamper containing things like foie gras en croute and beautiful whole stiltons for the Christmas night buffet,” says Darren. “There was certainly never a shortage of good things to eat.”

  • Kate Middleton fans spot poignant detail in Remembrance outfit after confusion

    Kate Middleton fans spot poignant detail in Remembrance outfit after confusion

    Royal fans have been delighted to see the Princess of Wales back on public duties with the Royal Family yet again.

    Kate has carried out public appearances for two consecutive days for Remembrance weekend – her first time in doing so since her cancer diagnosis earlier this year and her subsequent chemotherapy treatment. Today she made a rare appearance at the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph – a sign of both her gradual return to duties and the importance the royal family places on the annual tribute to the fallen after being at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall last night.

    The Princess of Wales at the Cenotaph today
    The Princess of Wales at the Cenotaph today 
    Image:
    Jonathan Buckmaster)

    Kate wore her iconic engagement ring at the Festival of Remembrance last night
    Kate wore her iconic engagement ring at the Festival of Remembrance last night 
    Image:
    POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

    In her few appearances before today’s service, including her emotional video where she opened up about her chemotherapy treatment being over, and during a poignant visit to Southport after the fatal stabbings in the town, Kate swapped her engagement ring in favour of a new ring.

    At nearly all royal engagements prior to her cancer treatment, Kate would be seen wearing her blue sapphire and diamond engagement ring that once belonged to William’s late mother Princess Diana. But then she plumped for a new one, also set with sapphires and diamonds, much like her engagement ring. During her visit to Southport, it was stacked with her gold wedding band as well as a further eternity ring, which she also usually wears.

    The Prince and Princess of Wales on a visit to Southport
    The Prince and Princess of Wales on a visit to Southport where Kate wore a different ring 
    Image:
    Iain Watts/Liverpool Echo)

    Kate’s recent jewellery choices have sparked speculation with royal watchers, as many wondered whether the new ring could have been a gift from William, particularly given the family have endured such a “brutal” year. Royal historian Tessa Dunlop also told the Mirror she believes that Kate’s new ring symbolises the strong sense of “togetherness” between the Prince and Princess of Wales.

    But when Kate and other senior royals stepped out for the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday, royal fans noticed she she was wearing her engagement ring again. She looked radiant as she arrived at the famous west London venue, dressed in an elegant black dress alongside her husband. The blue sapphire dazzled in pictures from the event.

    It remains unclear whether Kate wore her engagement ring for Sunday’s service as she was wearing gloves, but it was clear that she chose poignant jewellery to mark the occasion.

    The Duchess of Edinburgh with the Princess of Wales at the Cenotaph today
    The Duchess of Edinburgh with the Princess of Wales at the Cenotaph today 
    Image:
    PA)Don’t Miss
    Dressed in black in keeping with tradition, brave Kate looked the part in a netted hat, with her hair in a twisted chignon, and a military-style coat featuring black epaulettes, embellished at the neck with a black velvet bow.

    The Princess also wore diamond and pearl drop earrings which belonged to the late Queen. She also wore her silver Queen’s Dragoon Guards brooch – in a nod to her role as the regiment’s Colonel-in-Chief – beneath her three poppies. Kate also wore three red poppies, often rumoured to be in honour of her great-grandmother’s three brothers, who all lost their lives in the First World War.

  • How Meghan went to hospital, delivered Archie and returned to Frogmore Cottage within two hours – without causing any suspicion

    How Meghan went to hospital, delivered Archie and returned to Frogmore Cottage within two hours – without causing any suspicion

    There was considerable confusion at the time of the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan‘s son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.

    And just how the couple managed to successfully keep his arrival private is revealed by Harry in his memoir Spare, which was re-released in paperback last month.

    Since Meghan was a week past her due date in May 2019, the couple secretly visited the Portland Hospital to ‘make sure nothing’s wrong’, though they were well-prepared for Archie’s arrival.

    ‘We got into a nondescript people-carrier and crept away from Frogmore without alerting any of the journalists stationed at the gates,’ Harry writes.

    Within two hours of the birth, the couple had returned to Frogmore Cottage without arousing any suspicion.

    There was considerable confusion surrounding the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019
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    There was considerable confusion surrounding the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019

    Their doctor decided it was time to induce labour, and Meghan was given a canister of laughing gas to help ease the process.

    Meanwhile, Harry, who had ordered Nando’s via his bodyguards, took a hit from the gas meant for his wife.

    ‘I took several slow, penetrating hits. Meg, bouncing on a giant purple ball, a proven way of giving nature a push, laughed and rolled her eyes.

    ‘I took several more hits and now I was bouncing too,’ Harry reveals.

    ‘When her contractions began to quicken and deepen, a nurse came and tried to give some laughing gas to Meg. There was none left. The nurse looked at the tank, looked at me, and I could see the thought slowly dawning: Gracious, the husband’s had it all.’

    Fortunately, the nurse saw the humour in the situation and replaced the canister for Meghan.

    The duchess settled into the bath, immersing herself in the calming sounds of Deva Premal’s Sanskrit mantras, which had been remixed into hymns.

    Harry set the ambiance by arranging electric candles – the same ones he had used during his proposal to Meghan – around the room.

    Among the items in her overnight bag was a framed photograph of Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana.

    He noted in his memoir that this touching tribute was Meghan’s idea.

    Since Meghan was a week past her due date, she and Harry secretly visited The Portland Hospital to 'make sure nothing's wrong', though they were well-prepared for Archie's arrival (pictured in 2019)
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    Since Meghan was a week past her due date, she and Harry secretly visited The Portland Hospital to ‘make sure nothing’s wrong’, though they were well-prepared for Archie’s arrival (pictured in 2019)

    Within two hours of the birth, the couple had returned to Frogmore Cottage without arousing any suspicion (pictured in 2019)
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    Within two hours of the birth, the couple had returned to Frogmore Cottage without arousing any suspicion (pictured in 2019)

    In his memoir, Spare, Prince Harry reveals that he inhaled most of Meghan's laughing gas - and the cannister had to be replaced (pictured in 2019)
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    In his memoir, Spare, Prince Harry reveals that he inhaled most of Meghan’s laughing gas – and the cannister had to be replaced (pictured in 2019)

    Meghan gave birth to her first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, at The Portland Hospital on May 6, 2019
    +9

    Meghan gave birth to her first child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, at The Portland Hospital on May 6, 2019

    In keeping with tradition, Buckingham Palace announced the birth of Archie the following day
    +9

    In keeping with tradition, Buckingham Palace announced the birth of Archie the following day

    Within two hours of the birth, Harry and Meghan had returned to Frogmore Cottage without arousing any suspicion
    +9

    Within two hours of the birth, Harry and Meghan had returned to Frogmore Cottage without arousing any suspicion

    A few hours later, Harry spoke to journalists at Windsor to reveal his son's name
    +9

    A few hours later, Harry spoke to journalists at Windsor to reveal his son’s name

    Harry's bombshell memoir, Spare, was re-released in paperback this week
    +9

    Harry’s bombshell memoir, Spare, was re-released in paperback this week

    Despite Meghan’s efforts to breathe through the discomfort, the intensity became overwhelming and she ultimately had to receive two epidurals.

    ‘The anaesthetist hurried in. Off went the music, on went the lights,’ Harry writes.

    There was a brief moment of concern when the umbilical cord was discovered to be wrapped around the baby, but soon after, their healthy son was born.

    Harry reflects on this experience in his book, offering an intimate glimpse into their journey through childbirth.

    ‘A nurse swept the baby into a towel and placed him on Meg’s chest and we both cried to see him, meet him,’ he says.

    ‘Our ayurvedic doctor had advised us that, in the first minute of life, a baby absorbs everything said to them. So whisper to the baby, tell the baby your wish for him, your love. Tell.

    ‘We told.’

    Within two hours of Meghan giving birth, she and Harry had returned to Frogmore Cottage.

    It was only at this point that an announcement was made about Meghan going into labour, leading to a disagreement between the prince and his head of communications, Sara Latham.

    ‘I had a tiff with Sara about that. You know she’s not in labour any more, I said.

    ‘She explained that the Press must be given the dramatic, suspenseful story they demanded.

    ‘But it’s not true, I said.’

    The couple’s swift return home and the timing of the announcement sparked significant media attention and speculation surrounding the birth of Archie.

    A few hours later, Harry spoke to journalists outside the stables at Windsor to reveal his son’s name.

    ‘The papers were incensed. They said we’d pulled a fast one on them,’ he writes.

    ‘Indeed we had.’

  • Prince Harry suffers embarrassing moment on US TV as the top fact Americans know about him is revealed

    Prince Harry suffers embarrassing moment on US TV as the top fact Americans know about him is revealed

    Prince Harry suffered an embarrassing moment on US TV when the top fact Americans knew about him was revealed to be he’s married to Meghan Markle.

    The Duke of Sussex, 40, who  lives in Montecito, California, was chosen as the subject matter in a round of Family Feud hosted by Steve Harvey.

    The gameshow, which has been airing since 1976, sees two families competing for a cash prize by naming the most popular responses to survey questions that have been posed to 100 members of the public.

    In the latest episode, the Hernandez family went head-to-head with the Colleys – and were tasked with providing the six most well known facts about the Duke of Sussex, who has been living in the US since 2020.

    At the beginning of the round, host Steve Harvey invited one member from both teams to approach the podium and told them that this round was about Prince Harry.

    The Duke of Sussex (pictured with Meghan Markle) , 40, was chosen as the subject matter in a round of Family Feud
    +6

    The Duke of Sussex (pictured with Meghan Markle) , 40, was chosen as the subject matter in a round of Family Feud

    In the latest episode of Family Feud, the Hernandez family (pictured) went head-to-head with the Colleys - and were tasked with providing the six most well known facts about the Duke of Sussex
    +6

    In the latest episode of Family Feud, the Hernandez family (pictured) went head-to-head with the Colleys – and were tasked with providing the six most well known facts about the Duke of Sussex

    Pictured: the six most common things Americans know about Prince Harry, according to a Family Feud survey
    +6

    Pictured: the six most common things Americans know about Prince Harry, according to a Family Feud survey

    The first person to get an answer right then passes the baton back to their family, who have a chance to guess the remaining survey questions and win the round.

    Within two seconds, Fabian Hernandez hit his buzzer and answered: ‘He’s married to Meghan Markle.’

    Unimpressed by this response, the gameshow host said: ‘Come on, boy!’

    However, the board confirmed that this answer was actually the most common fact the US population knows about the Prince.

    Once Fabian was back with his team, Sofia Hernandez correctly guessed that Harry being a Prince was another survey answer. This proved to be the fourth most popular fact out of the six.

    After this, Robert Hernandez said: ‘I don’t know much about him but I know [he’s] got money.’

    Unfortunately for the team, Prince Harry’s wealth wasn’t one of the most common responses, which earned the Hernandez family their first strike. Each team is allowed three in total before it is passed onto their rivals.

    Next, Marisa Hernandez guessed Prince William being Prince Harry’s brother would be another popular survey answer, which also didn’t feature.

    At the beginning of the round, host Steve Harvey (pictured) invited one member from both teams to approach the podium and told them that this round was about Prince Harry
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    At the beginning of the round, host Steve Harvey (pictured) invited one member from both teams to approach the podium and told them that this round was about Prince Harry

    Kristina Hernandez then suggested that most people would know Prince Harry is the son of Princess Diana – which was the second most common answer on the board, below his marriage to Meghan.

    Following this train of thought, Fabian put forward Prince Harry’s late grandmother Queen Elizabeth – earning the Hernandez family their third strike.

    Once the round was passed over to the Colley family, Drake immediately put forward Prince Harry’s ginger hair – which was the third most popular fact Americans know about the Duke.

    This correct answer won the Colley family the round – with Steve Harvey going on to reveal that they would have also accepted ‘balding’ and ‘hottie!’ as a response too.

    King Charles, Princess Diana pictured with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry (left), December 1986. Prince Harry's mother was the second most common answer in the latest episode of Family Feud
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    King Charles, Princess Diana pictured with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry (left), December 1986. Prince Harry’s mother was the second most common answer in the latest episode of Family Feud

    Family Feud host Steve Harvey revealed at the end of the round of Prince Harry that they would have also accepted 'balding' and 'hottie' as answers
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    Family Feud host Steve Harvey revealed at the end of the round of Prince Harry that they would have also accepted ‘balding’ and ‘hottie’ as answers

    Last month, Prince Harry was named the 25th ‘hottest man of all time’ by Harper’s Bazaar magazine – beating Bradley Cooper and David Beckham in the rankings.

    Months after his move to the US in 2020, Prince Harry was also named the ‘world’s sexiest royal’ by People magazine.

    Earlier this year, it was revealed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archewell Foundation had been sending out personalised letters to unregistered voters and insisting that ‘every voice matters’ – despite insisting they are politically neutral and they have not mentioned any candidates.

    In 2020 the couple did not endorse a candidate but urged Americans to vote in the ‘most important election of our lifetime’. Meghan even cold-called Americans urging them to vote.

    This was interpreted by many as backing Joe Biden, including by Donald Trump, who said he was ‘no fan’ of the former Suits star and Harry luck ‘because he’s going to need it’.

  • Kate Middleton and Prince William ‘confirmed to attend Christmas in Sandringham’ after a difficult year amid health battles

    Kate Middleton and Prince William ‘confirmed to attend Christmas in Sandringham’ after a difficult year amid health battles

    The Prince and Princess of Wales will celebrate Christmas at Sandringham with King Charles and the rest of the royal family following a tumultuous year for them.

    On Friday, The Mirror reported that William and Kate, both 42, will join senior members of The Firm for the annual Christmas Day Service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham on December 25.

    It will be a special Christmas for the family as they come together after what has been a difficult year following Charles, 76, and Kate’s back-to-back cancer diagnoses.

    Sources told the newspaper Charles, who is currently in Sandringham, is ‘delighted’ that the whole family will be together for the holidays – with the monarch reportedly overseeing the planning himself.

    One insider said: ‘The King is embracing the Christmas period already and really getting into the spirit. Staff who have seen him this week remarked how happy and healthy he was looking.’

    Charles and Camilla are reportedly spending the weekend at the Norfolk estate, with one source explaining how Charles is ‘enjoying time outdoors’ as he continues his cancer treatment.

    Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer earlier this year while undergoing treatment for an enlarged prostate.

    It will be a special Christmas for the family as they come together after what has been a difficult year - following Charles, 76, and Kate's back-to-back cancer diagnoses
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    It will be a special Christmas for the family as they come together after what has been a difficult year – following Charles, 76, and Kate’s back-to-back cancer diagnoses

    Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Prince William, Prince of Wales, Prince Louis of Wales attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023 in Sandringham, Norfolk
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    Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Prince William, Prince of Wales, Prince Louis of Wales attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023 in Sandringham, Norfolk

    William previously described 2024 as the ‘hardest year of my life’ as the future King opened up about the health challenges faced by his father and wife.

    Kate was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer after she was admitted to the London Clinic in Marylebone for an abdominal operation in January.

    While Charles is still undergoing treatment, the future Queen announced she has completed a preventative course of chemotherapy – and will make a gradual return to public life following the diagnosis.

    Reports about the Royal Family’s Christmas plans come days after it was reported that Kate will undertake her most significant public engagement since she began cancer treatment as she welcomes the Emir of Qatar for his official state visit to the UK next month.

    Catherine will accompany her husband Prince William to officially greet the Emir and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher, at their residence on December 3 and accompany them to Horse Guards Parade for a stunning ceremonial welcome.

    The King and Queen will be waiting to greet the guests before accompanying them back to Buckingham Palace.

    It is expected that the princess, who announced in September a slow and measured return to public life after the completion of her preventative chemotherapy treatment, will join the Royal Family at the palace for lunch.

    But it has been confirmed that she will not attend a glittering State Banquet in the evening.


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    The Prince and Princess of Wales during a visit to Southport Community Centre on October 10

    The Princess of Wales will undertake her most significant public engagement since she began cancer treatment next month
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    The Princess of Wales will undertake her most significant public engagement since she began cancer treatment next month

    Catherine will accompany her husband to officially greet the Emir and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher, at their residence on December 3 and accompany them to Horse Guards Parade for a ceremonial welcome
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    Catherine will accompany her husband to officially greet the Emir and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher, at their residence on December 3 and accompany them to Horse Guards Parade for a ceremonial welcome

    Kate shares intimate glimpse into her family life in moving video

    A royal source described the announcement of her attendance at some elements of the visit, however, as ‘good news’.

    The princess has attended a number of high profile events such as Trooping the Colour, Remembrance events and Wimbledon over the last eleven months since she effectively withdrew from public life to focus on her health.

    But next month’s appearance will be her most significant so far given that she will be playing an active role in events.