'Zara has no airs or graces - she makes the royals more relatable'
In a heartwarming display of familial affection, King Charles III and Zara Tindall shared a warm embrace at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The touching moment captured the genuine bond between uncle and niece as they greeted each other with open arms on the third day of the prestigious event held at Windsor Castle in England.
Royal expert Jennie Bond weighed in on the encounter, noting the authenticity and warmth of the embrace. "Now THAT’s a proper hug! And a proper relationship: loving, warm, and unselfconscious," she remarked, highlighting Zara's genuine affection for her uncle amidst his recent struggles.
In a broader context, Jennie emphasised the significance of such public displays of affection among the royals, noting a shift towards greater relatability and genuineness within the monarchy.
"We are seeing a lot more public displays of affection from the royals these days… and it’s a good thing," she added. "It makes them all much more relatable and genuine. The days of the stiff upper lip and polite handshakes are passing. Hooray!"
King Charles' recent visit to the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre in London follows his candid revelation of being diagnosed with cancer. During his time at the center, the King interacted with both patients and staff, gaining insights into the latest treatments and the essential care provided by the facility.
The monarch was praised by many for the high-spirited way he has tackled his diagnosis with former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond telling OK! : "It was the perfect place to return. I think the King looked very well as he arrived at the hospital.
"He deliberately lingered at the entrance making sure the cameras and the public got a good view of him. He knew this was an important moment."
Despite his health challenges, King Charles appeared relaxed and cheerful, reassuring concerned individuals with a simple "I'm well." Accompanied by Queen Camilla, he even embarked on spontaneous walkabouts to greet the staff.
Having undergone treatment for an unspecified type of cancer since early February, King Charles' recent return to public engagements signals a positive response to nearly three months of outpatient care.
While his comeback is encouraging, palace sources stress that he will continue to receive treatment. A Palace spokesperson expressed optimism, stating: "His Majesty's medical team are very encouraged by the progress made so far and remain positive about the King's continued recovery."
Charles's schedule won't be as packed this summer, and his attendance at events will be announced closer to the time and "subject to doctors' advice", with necessary "adaptations made where necessary to minimise risk" to his recovery.
The spokesperson also said: "The pacing of the King's programme will be carefully calibrated as his recovery continues, in close consultation with his medical team."
