The Prince of Wales' marriage plans have won the approval of his sons. Princes William and Harry were said to be "100 per cent" behind the union. "We are both very happy for our father and Camilla and we wish them all the luck in the future," they said in
a statement.
It seems to have been Prince William who offered the first olive branch to Parker Bowles when, in June 1998, he invited her to the St James's Palace royal apartments. After 30 minutes of small-talk, a nervous Parker Bowles reportedly remarked: "I need a gin and tonic."
Indifference to announcement
Britain's royal family have feared a public backlash over marriage between Prince Charles and his longtime lover, but it appears they need not have worried.
On the streets of London, the marriage announcement was greeted with indifference.
"I don't really care about it, it's his life," said businessman Andy Easman, 37.
London marketing manager Maria Mackintosh, 27, said: "I couldn't care less what they do. Let them do what they want, let them be happy."
Long tradition of bit on the side
The tradition of keeping a mistress is a long-standing one for Britain's royal family. In the Parker Bowles, so is being a mistress.
In a curious quirk of history, the maternal great-grandmother of Camilla Parker Bowles was also unofficially involved with a top royal.
Alice Keppel embarked on a long affair with another Prince of Wales in 1898, the relationship continuing even after he became King Edward VII in 1901.
Odds on Camilla's bridal outfit
Bookmakers are giving odds on what colour outfit Camilla Parker Bowles will wear when she ties the knot with Prince Charles in April, while designers mull whether she will take her vows in a suit or dress.
A cream-coloured ensemble is the hot favourite to win, with Ladbrokes offering odds of 1-5 and rivals William Hill giving 1-3. Outside bets range from a luminous pink or yellow outfit at 100-1 and a patriotic red, white and blue at 50-1.
But dress designers expect Parker Bowles to opt for a traditional look for her second marriage.
Villagers call for abdication
There's a strong respect for tradition in Great Brington, a tidy, tiny village near Princess Diana's childhood home, Althorp House.
"I don't think they should get married," said retiree Ann Rogers, 60. "There is a good feeling towards Diana, most people feel the same way.
"If he does want to marry her, he should abdicate . . . she shouldn't be queen."
The Prince of Wales' marriage plans have won the approval of his sons. Princes William and Harry were said to be "100 per cent" behind the union. "We are both very happy for our father and Camilla and we wish them all the luck in the future," they said in
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