TeaTime

Anne takes Harry’s marines role

By Roya Nikkhah, The Sunday Times.

Princess Anne is already associated with 65 military organisations and is often named as one of the hardest-working royals.

Now, after the departure of the Duke of Sussex for Canada, the Princess Royal is in line to become the first female captain-general of the Royal Marines. Anne, 69, is expected to add to her many royal duties when her nephew gives up his military commands in the spring.

Harry is expected to return to Britain next month for a farewell engagement with the Royal Marines little more than two years after he took over as captain-general from the Duke of Edinburgh. Anne will also attend.

Prince Philip, 98, held the role for 64 years until 2017, when he retired from public duties. He was understood to be particularly keen for Anne to take over from Harry.

The prestigious honorary role for Anne is likely to be seen as an inspiration for women considering signing up as marines. Only one enrolled for the gruelling commando course last year, despite more than 1,000 having registered an interest. Of the estimated 600 recruits for this year’s course, all are men.

Prince Louis joins his siblings Prince George and Princess Charlotte and mum and Dad on the balcony of Buckingham Palace after Trooping the Colour.

Family support for Lady Louise Windsor from mum and grandpa as she comes third at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit Belfast at the start of a two day visit to Northern Ireland.