Beatrice and Eugenie holiday on exclusive island
Princess Beatrice’s romance with one of Sir Richard Branson’s employees appears to be having unexpected benefits for all her family.
Mandrake hears that Beatrice, her sister, Princess Eugenie, and their mother, Sarah, Duchess of York, are enjoying a holiday at Sir Richard’s Caribbean island, Necker.
Beatrice has been courted by the American Dave Clark, 26, who works for Sir Richard’s Virgin Galactic space mission, for two years.
On Friday, they will celebrate her 20th birthday together. (via The Telegraph)
August 4th, 2008 10:09
It’s wonderful Beatrice, Eugenie, and Fergie are
enjoying their holiday at Sir Richard’s Caribbean
Island,Necker. I bet there was a lot of sun there.
August 4th, 2008 22:48
Gracie I think what happened is New of The World sent everyone into doubt and into panic mood. William did not want to go away and leave Kate alone to go to work at Jigsaw where the paps was hounding her so she went to works at her parents business in private and started to have a more low profile. William will finish up his training this fall and next year he will get down with royal duties. William and the Royal Family has let it be known that she is now part of the royal calendar, so he will not leave her out in the cold and go on long trips without giving her some royal status . Royal Correspondents notice what’s going on and will drop hints from time to time but are keeping things hush, hush. William is not clueless on how the Moanrchy works but his training is to give him more ingight and help him along thec way, this does not mean that Kate is being pushed to aside at all. Ked I’m telling you what happened. The press just don’t know where Kate will fit in on all of this so they are the ones that is putting things off but this is not something that is worrying Kate because she knows all what’s going on and she is being geared up for next year. Her attending this years events is just part of it. We are in a new day and year. Things changed so quick that it became confusing for some but now things are about to get more exciting than ever. So this is why I’m telling all BRW bloggers to calm down and not get all worked up because William & Kate is not getting worked up. Like I said before, this woman is not far from his mind and he’s doing this with her in mind and by his side.
August 5th, 2008 05:12
Nobody is getting worked up and nobody has said that Kate will be left out and will be put to one side and forgotten about for ages.
It is pretty obvious that he cares for her and I have not read anyone say otherwise.
August 5th, 2008 05:32
B,
I’m not sure I agree, if you recall last year when PW’s calendar was filled with Army and civil duties KM went into hibernation for several months.
I think that with the enormous amount of calls upon PW’s time over the next X months she may well be told to keep her head below the parapet again.
In fact I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she didn’t spend a fair time away from the UK. Not that we’ll know because her profile will be kept very low.
There’s sure to be a lot of an outcry about this but I really think something like this will happen.
August 5th, 2008 05:37
PW civil royal duties are always announced by CH. The Military (his bosses, chief commanders) took care of detailing his military duties. Next years civil royal duties will be detailed by CH. That has not happened yet, we have reports of what it may be, which sound reliable, because they sound serious, thats it.
August 5th, 2008 05:40
I guess the main difference is that Kate couldn’t reasonably have joined William in his military duty or education but she could very well join the “apprenticeship” planned for him next year. So while she didn’t have a choice but to “sit out” his military service, she must not necessarily do so with his diplomatic education.
In the end we have no choice but to wait and see what happens this year and next.
August 5th, 2008 05:51
Right ! At the meantime, the press are on her with crazy stories.
August 5th, 2008 06:33
Hello,
I have a thought that many months ago shortly after PW finished at Sandhurst the Army declared that KM could not stay with him on Military premises unless they were engaged and that was shortly before his initial posting down to Bovington Camp.
You may recall that it was whilst at Bovington PW became very involved with a heavy drinking group of Army colleagues and a couple of local ladies who reportedly returned with him to his rooms in camp.
This was just before the March/April 2007 breakup ,so it may be that decision made by the Army reintroduced PW to a ’singles’ life thus delaying his decision to ask KM to marry him.
This is supposition but with hindsight may well have delayed the progress of PW/KM relationship by giving PW a taste of what he may be missing as a single man.
I think he soon realised what he was missing and managed to talk KM around but only possibly because of her love for him.
It is only a thought process which the absence of accurate reporting could easilly substantiate.
August 5th, 2008 09:28
I don’t know why people think William will be so busy and so much away from London next year. Who said that? He may make a visist or two to some Commenwealth nations but most of the time he will be found in different offices in or around London.
August 5th, 2008 11:36
Exactly dagy, some began to think he’s clueless about how the Monarchy works but he’s not. And Catherinw will be included in his training. She will accompany him to events like receptions, dinners and private functions. Camilla did the same thing way before her marriage and the Countess of Wessex also did the same thing. Believe me when I tell you guys she will take on more events and if they get engaged this fall, she will really be by his side at occasions.
August 5th, 2008 11:42
dagy,
When the news came out about PW’s post services future not directly from CH but from a source close to CH it was initially suggested that PW would spend time at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and would spend time representing HM on Commonwealth tours alone.
It then went on and said that it was possible that he would spend some time in both Embassies and Consulates around the World.
The original news didn’t expand but a further source ( I can’t find the source) mentioned Embassies in Paris France,Washington USA,South Africa and Consulates in New Zealand and Australia as possibilities.
As he had already been rejected as a possible Representative of the Queen in Australia that posting was said to be doubtful.
If just part of the above proves to be true there is several months already planned for him in 2009 and 2010 and when I originally read that and the partial official confirmation of his future plans, it made me think that any progress for PW/KM’s personal life remained far in the future.
When one considers just part of the above agenda it leads one to think that certain pressures are being put on the relationship with the possibility of one or the other walking away from the relationship.
It will be interesting to see what happens and when.
August 5th, 2008 11:49
I totally understand what you are saying but like I said before all of this is with her in mind.
August 5th, 2008 12:40
Hello!
I see both of your sides, Ked and Rman, and I think the reality will lie somewhere in-between, as is usually the case….
However….I must say that, although I really enjoy and agree with your positivity most of the time, Rman, I somewhat disagree with your last statement about “all of this is with her in mind.”
Unfortunately, for generation after generation of the Royal family, they have shown that they very much stick with “each other” and very rarely consider the feelings of those that are not born into the family. I would be inclined to believe that the aides are not figuring Kate into any of these plans….if she fits in, here or there, along the way, then fine…but I really think that their only concern is that of William.
These past months it has been made clear, through actions and through the interview from Jigsaw, that Kate has little control over her schedule when it comes to the Royal Family, and that they expect her to come and go and participate when they say so…it doesn’t appear as if she has much control over the situation, thus making it seem that her presence and life are rarely taken into consideration when plans are made…sadly, they just sort of expect her to be there at a moment’s notice, and don’t fully realize her potential….
August 5th, 2008 12:58
Rman,
As you well know , my worry is that she may not because of objections from, possibly, limited sections of the RF.BP or CH.
L,
What you say is certainly true and the only person who may influence KM’s position is PW.
Unfortunately, as in many instances in the past, he just does not seem to have the ‘bottle’ or perhaps the inclination to progress his relationship when there is pressure from other sources.
He surely will have realised what KM means to him but he may well “dice with death ” once too often.
If it breaks up again it surely will be for ever and as in many such circumstances one or both usually become attached elsewhere fairly quickly.
If KM does that then I hope she gets well away from PW circle of friends as in these ‘incestuous’ marriages husbands have been known to step aside if/when the sovereign or heirs show new interest. ie Parker-Bowles
August 5th, 2008 13:09
L,
You are absolutely right. Girlfriends still do not have much status in the RF. Because of royal protocol they can’t do many things like spend Christmas with them or attend certain functions. I remember a few years ago when Camilla and Charles were invited to one of the Van Cutsem weddings. Camilla even as PC’s recognized partner was placed several rows behind him in the church. Charles was really furious and felt like she had been snubbed. So he finally decided to marry her. William has really stepped up to the plate in the last year or so having Kate attend so many royal functions. But he has to be the one in charge of things because those bone headed courtiers certainly don’t care.
August 5th, 2008 13:35
So true nikki and Ked you are right. I have a feeling that Williamn will put things straight. The Queen and Prince Charles knows how much Kate means to William and they won’t get in his way. That’s why I’m so excited for these two because they have worked hard to make all this happen.
August 5th, 2008 13:46
After Kate went to the Philips wedding, we know the press went crazy with the engagement stuff. If the Queen/CH didn’t like the papers pushing an engagement, then she would not have been allowed to be seen publicly, standing in the royal tent with Camilla, Sophie, etc at the Garter, for fear of the rumors getting bigger. I don’t think William would lead her on either. As we know the RF are very particular about who attends these funtions and she would not have been at the Garter unless something was going to happen. CH are no fools and they know that if William dumps Kate again it will be a horrible mess for him, especially since the Chinook episodes. The Queen knows the future is William and Kate would have been dropped long ago if they did not approve. RF/CH can’t afford another Diana and Charles fiasco and the Queen knows this. Even Pippa social standing is being elevated. So I think plans are in place. Maybe they will show up in Bejing for the Olympics. It would be a morale boost to the Brits as other RF form EU are going and it’s good PR for William.
August 5th, 2008 13:54
gracie,I don’t know how likely it would be for William and Kate to attend the olympics. I am of the opinion that Zara backed out for security reasons not the reason that was given. JMO. Interesting point brought up by nikki regarding Charles and Camilla and how she was not permitted to be seated with him at that wedding. I have thought for awhile that William did not attend Peter and Autumn’s wedding for that very reason..because Kate would not be able to sit with him. Too many inconsistencies with the “official”reason for his absence. I believe he bowed out of that wedding so his partner could go, be seated with Chelsy and they could both enjoy themselves. It was a noble thing to do.
August 5th, 2008 14:05
gracie,
Just let’s say that out of the blue KM and PW fall out of love and sometimes over long spread out relationships this happens (Grant/Hurley 14 years) when either show signs of uncertainty or lack of decision making.
What you are saying is that because of past problems in his family they should go ahead and marry because not to do so would cause big problems for PW.
There is nothing like uncertainty to pressurise any relationship and if PW doesn’t act now KM is going to have months perhaps years or waiting and uncertainty with resultant pressure from families,newspapers and her own thoughts.
PW has shown himself to be a ditherer several times but he now has a chance to show he can be decisive or weak.
It may not yet be a ‘marry me or let me go’ situation but from reports there has been a similar occasion before when KM precipitated the break up.
The window for action is very small with PW’s Army and constitutional commitments being heaped up .
It may be ” take me now or lose me for ever “.
Will PW take that chance ?
August 5th, 2008 14:13
How has William been a ditherer? I have very much the impression that he follows a certain path in his life. At no time has William ever indicated he wanted to marry and then took it back. Neither has Kate ever actually said anything to the effect that she’s unhappy about not being married yet. We always have to keep in mind that the only “source” telling us about engagement plans, ultimatums and Kate’s desperatioon to marry etc. is the press which has no other interest but to sell papers. They have been wrong so many times that I do not believe anything except what I see in pics and what is officially stated by CH or BP. I think it was very clear for both of them that they would not get married as long as William is serving in the military. That’s not dithering, IMO. That’s reasonable.
August 5th, 2008 14:24
Ked, I understand your point. The Queen would not allow this relationship to be so public by attending these ceremonies. Make or break time IMO had to happen before she started to be by William side at these events. That might have been what the break up was about in 07. From what I have seen they just don’t let every girlfriend attend these type of events. You never see Andrew with a lady on his arm at public events for the sheer fact that he does seem to go through them quickly. I don’t think the Queen would use the public forum to allow her children, grandchildren to parade every new relationship they fall into. Kate being at the Garter was significant and I think William can’t back track out of it now. IMO. I think he loves her and deeply cares about her which is more than Charles had for Diana and is enough to sustain the monarchy. Kate and her family haven proven themselves to be very trusting people, that keep their mouths shut. Which is important. Kate has stuck with William with her head held high and that is not a test that all canidates for William can pass. I think William loves her enough to marry her, if he has a mistress on the side well that is another thing.
August 5th, 2008 14:27
Charles made 43 mio. Pounds from real estate deals withtin the last 7 years …. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1041920/Revealed-Prince-Charles-earned-270million-property-deals-2001.html
August 5th, 2008 14:28
Yeah but that boy is no fool. What we see is two people who in love with each other and William wouldn’t do her wrong because she don’t deserve it and he’s not like that. When I think back to the Garter ceremony, Kate stood there not just like a proud girlfriend but she looked like a proud wife watching her husband recieve such a great honor. You can tell that they are in this for good and they are very happy. William will continue to make things right, he is a level headed human being mainly because his parents did such a great job with him and his brother. They are not snobs and value themseleves and their family very much.
August 5th, 2008 14:35
So do any of you think they are really in Mustique? It must be some place off the map because I am surprised that no pictures have surfaced yet.
August 5th, 2008 14:41
We didn’t get any pics from their last Mustique vacation either. I guess they found a truely private spot for themselves. As far as I know Mustique is a very exclusive holiday place so paps would surely not get anyhwere near them. Don’t know how they avoid being papped at airports but maybe the yfly in and out via Edinburgh or some other city in the UK except for pap infested London.
August 5th, 2008 15:13
The press Association is reporting that William and Harry will attend the Oct premiere of the newest James Bond film with proceeds going to charity. It will be interesting to see if they bring the girls or appear alone.
August 5th, 2008 15:17
We probably won’t get any pics of them on holiday. But I’d love to know where they’re going when they get back to the UK. William doesn’t start his SAS work until the fall & they still have the rest of August.
August 5th, 2008 15:18
JMO but I’m glad I don’t know where they are as it’s not any of my business. I’m glad we don’t have photos, as that would indicate a breach of privacy had occurred, and for heaven’s sakes, if one cannot have a little privacy on the beach for $ 5,000. per night, or whatever their room is costing, then when will these two ever get any private “one-on-one” time?
Also, the idea of them staying with Lord Glenconner in Mustique is simply NOT a possibilty, as that deranged old bat sold his share in the place years ago.
If they were staying with Crazy Colin, it would be in St. Lucia …
August 5th, 2008 15:31
Hello,
This is a hunch, and only a hunch but I don’t think they are on Mustique in the same way as I didn’t think they were on the Island earlier this year despite reports to contrary.
There is no way, these days, that a destination outside full British control would be circulated so far in advance.
They may be in the general area but could just as easily be anywhere.
KM left the UK too many days before PW was expected and the announcement of her travel situation made too detailed.
Something odd!
August 5th, 2008 15:42
Ked,
I smell a red herring here and it is stinking in that special way fish does — perhaps Kate and William are in Seychelles, Sri Lanka or another place so glamourous that one cannot drink the water? I sense the clever brain of William at work, once again refusing to placate the dreaded English press with any true knowledge of his private life. He obviously feels his private life is his private life, and I respect the young man for taking this view.
I am told the Caribbean is prone to hurricanes this time of year, so any time after June 30th and before October it’s not really considered that desirable a place to be, unless one likes wind!
and of course, a reduced room rate.
My sense is these two are holed up somewhere romantic, hopefully drinking lots of those tasty mini- umbrella drinks whilst baking in the sun — it just may not where we might think …
August 5th, 2008 15:45
alsgal
I hadn’t read they were staying with Lord Glenconner. Just that they were going to be guests at a party he was hosting for the 40th anniversary of Mustique. Of course that information came from Richard Kay of the DM so take it for what it’s worth.
August 5th, 2008 16:10
Mustique is a private island with some 90 privately owned luxury houses, one small hotell . and just a couple of restaurants. There isn’t much chanse for paparazzi or people with mobile phones to get pictures. They can’t afford to stay there and would be chased off the island anyway. William and Kate are not the only famous people staying there. Have you seen many photos of celebrities holidaying there? No, it’s one of those places they are still able to be left alone.
August 5th, 2008 16:12
So true, Nikki — Richard Kay is known in these parts as Mr. Fifty Fifty — half is true, half is false. But I wonder why Glenconner would host a party there after having had such a disastrous experience with the group who took him over — jmo, but that doesn’t make much sense. (I am no insider on such matters btw, just a Canadian housewife with a horrendous Google addiction.
)
August 5th, 2008 16:14
Hello,
I think I’m betting on Seychelles.
When you read the KM/Brit. Air seat change story did they mention destination?
It could have been anywhere but last year KM travelled via Paris and PW crossed from Kenya.
Perhaps they will travel back via Kenya or maybe PW will go alone.
PW can’t stay away from there it’s part of his heritage now.
August 5th, 2008 16:18
I didn’t know that it was hurricane season in the Caribbean. Thank you alsgal for noting that. They have been to that area before though in the summer haven’t they?
I felt that it was strange that Kate flew over so early seeing as William was on ship until the Friday. I thought that she might have flown over early to enjoy the sun etc. stayed over a few days with William (a romantic meeting after so long a time apart) and then flown back. Although, we have had no photos of them in England it is possible that they are here. After all, we often have no photos of William after holidays and photos of Kate have been rare. What do you think? It is just an idea of course, but there may be something in it.
August 5th, 2008 16:19
The reports said that William would stay onboard Duke Iron for five weeks. He entered on a Wednesday. So maybe he left on a Wednesday too. That’s way Kate arrived on Tuesday. Some papers started to write that he would stay till the end of the month. Then others decided that would be August 1. I think he left on the 3oth (which also is the end of the month). So he was able to fool the press this time too. They met up in Barbados and left for Mustique two days before the press expected them to.
August 5th, 2008 16:21
“who was on her way to meet the prince in Barbados ”
http://tinyurl.com/6ev2u7
Do people have to go to Barbados before they can travel to Mustique? Is it not direct and where is Barbados anyway? Sorry for the rubbish geography.
August 5th, 2008 16:29
Ked, I agree with what you said one earlier post. When the details and timetable of Kate and William trip had been made public, I thought it might be a smokescreen or his security firm are idots. I believe it is the first and not the latter. Hurricane season does nothing to dampen tourist to the Carribean because they still contiue to come. Brad and Angelina Jolie have paps dressed in combat fatigues hiding in trees to get a photo. Wherever their are stars etc. that paps are there doesn’t matter how expensive the area is they all about making money.
August 5th, 2008 16:43
Mustique is an exclusive 1,400 acre island located in the southern Caribbean with lush rolling
terrain cooled by gentle trade winds, surrounded by pristine white beaches and crystal clear
aquamarine waters. This private island is owned and operated by the Mustique Company,
comprised of shareholders and villa owners from 17 countries dedicated to protecting the island’s
natural beauty, tranquility and privacy.
August 5th, 2008 16:45
Mustique is 18 miles south of St. Vincent and 110 miles west of Barbados. You can sail there on a yacht or take a commuter flight. Mustique Airways, Trans Island Airways (TIA) and SVG Airlines has “shared charters” from Barbados and St. Vincent, plus will do private charters to and from other islands in the Grenadines.
We flew to Mustique from Barbados on a twin engine “Islander” plane which held 8 people and was one of the smoothest one hour flights I can remember. The landing wasn’t like ANY I remember though and was an exciting “wing your way over a steep hill” and immediately drop on a very short runway . What fun!
August 5th, 2008 17:08
Well where ever they are I just know they are having a great time and it would be nice for them to take the girls to the 007 Premiere since it is a charity event.
August 5th, 2008 17:38
Rman,
Do you think that they are discussing their engagement abd fyture ?
If so what if PW refuses to discus the matter ?
August 5th, 2008 18:04
I truly believe they already have. Like I said before, Kate is gearing up for all this and she is doing it very well. Although it’s hard to understand because we are not in that position, but I truly feel like he is not being pressure into anything but now realizing that it’s time to take that relationship to that level. She obviously gets along with his family very well and she seem to understand that she’s not entering into a regular family but a royal one. Although I do wish we would see him with her family more but I’m sure in private he see a lot of them. I just like watching that relationship grow and it really matured this year. The British people really seem to like her. But we still have to get to know her better like hear her speak and see where her charity interest lay.
August 5th, 2008 18:11
I think people want to know now is where they will be when the announcement is made Clarence House, Windsor, Balmoral or Sandringham. It is said that William adores Highgrove so it could be announced there.
August 5th, 2008 19:35
I thought the engagement announcements are usually done at Balmoral, but I could be mistaken. I know RA said that the Queen has cleared her summer and is not traveling abroad in case Brown resigns. Seems a silly reason as to why she would clear her schedule, maybe its because she just is getting older and wants to relax for summer at Balmoral. Who knows? Hopefully it will happen and happen soon.
August 5th, 2008 23:11
Well Edward & Sophie announced theirs at St. James’s Palace, Charles & Diana did theirs at Buckingham Palace so William may do he’s at Clarence House or Windsor. Who knows but everyone is waiting for it.
August 6th, 2008 00:46
Rman,
Normally I think any announcement would come from a Roal Parents home, but in case of future Monarch I have a feeling it may bu from BP but I do not know for certain.
But Guys, please don’t anticipate it, don’t hang on waiting because this build up even on our site will in some ways be transmitted into the
Newspapers .
The sense of disappointment when it doesn’t arrive is only transmitted in more hateful comments about KM ,about her waiting, about …oh about just everything . What’s she doing with her life, why doesn’t she get a job. You name it and the vile comments will flow unceasingly until their next appearance together which may be as late as November and Charles’ 60th birthday.
I think the charity Film appearance of PW and PH may well be a ‘boys only’ similar to the Charity march past earlier this year and the Sports dinner that PW attended alone.
Hush !Be patient, don’t build IT up and it may come but only in due course.
August 6th, 2008 01:16
Ked’s got the right idea.
August 6th, 2008 01:46
I agree Ked.
August 6th, 2008 02:24
Hello,
If Gemma Arterton is to be at the Premier I very much doubt that KM or CD will be in attendance
August 6th, 2008 05:17
Gemma is going to be there because she is the bond girl. I don’t think that the girls will go with PW and PH but I don’t understand why Gemma being there should mean that they will not.
August 6th, 2008 06:47
B,
In a word “Harry”
August 6th, 2008 07:01
Hello,
I have just heard that Peter Phillips and Autumn are off to Hong Kong today.
There was a article a month or so ago which said he was going there to work for a time.
Are they just going for the Olympics or is he intending to stay there ?
Does anyone know anything about it ?
It was also mentioned that Zara would be lonely when they left because they live near one another on the estate and have lots to do with each other.
Does anyone know what has happend to her boyfriend Mike, he wasn’t reported to be at Gatcombe Park which is unusual as they support each other in their respective sports. Surely he would be about so Zara would not be lonely ?
August 6th, 2008 08:29
Ked, last I read was that Peter was taking over Gatcombe, like his father. There were those rumors about him going to Hong Kong, but the Telegraph reported the Gatcombe story. I think they are just there to see the games and Autumn I am not mistaken speaks Chinese. Correct me if I am wrong. I have also wondered what was going on with Zara and Mike too. Usually they are always together. Maybe it has to do with his drunk driving charge and she is not be seen in public with him or has Rugby season begun in England? Excuse my ignorance, but football begins here in the fall and they are at practice camps. Do the Rugby teams have something similar?
August 6th, 2008 08:42
Does anyone know if Kate is related to Camilla? Camilla father was Bruce Middleton Hope Shand.
August 6th, 2008 09:46
gracie,
Yes I heard that too but then today was told he and Autumn were off to Hong Kong but I didn’t get an explanation. Perhaps it’s only for the games as his father Mark is already there as The Chief de Partie of the American show jumping team and I think his wife is a coach with the British Team. Talk about conflicting Interest. I did hear that Autumn had graduated in Oriental languages
Princess Anne is expected there too but after the Opening Ceremony as she is a Member of the Full Olympic Committee. Perhaps Zara may accompany her but I haven’t heard anything.
Yes we do have pre season training which is quite hectic but that is not yet in full swing but will be in two and a half weeks.
Some of us however continue with light training during summer especially the backs who need to work on reaction times and sprinting but as I also play cricket I am usually stay fit throughout the year.
Mike has pleaded guilty but there may be mitigating health problems from the severe liver damage he had playing International Rugby last season, which may affect his tolerance to alcohol. I don’t know that for certain but it may be a possibility.
I understand he is returning for sentence in October.
August 6th, 2008 10:10
Hello all,
There is an unconfirmed story emanating from Evening Standard that Prince Philip is suffering from Prostate Cancer.
I understand the Palace have not confirmed it but if true I am sure we all wish him well and a comfortable recovery
August 6th, 2008 10:17
The Palaces has denied the report – you can read thier statement in The Times: http://tinyurl.com/6julfb
August 6th, 2008 10:17
I just read BP denied the story
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iyGLRTMnla7j65Y9nEIzjoISTlAg
Still it would explain why William is rushed through his military service (he only had 3 years when Charles served 6). It was also reported Will would take over the administration of Sandringham estate from Philip. Maybe it’s not cancer but I guess Philip’s heath is not as robust as it seems and arrangements for his “successor” are made.
August 6th, 2008 11:14
Trixie,
Your comment about Sandringham is quite valid. Well spotted.
How much better it would have been for PW to have spent 2/3 years at an Agricultural College or University being trained in Estate Management instead of wasting, yes wasting years in the military on a career where the end results ie combat are forbidden to him.
He could have done his estate training and served in the Territorial Army to get just as much valid military experience. A great friend of his father did just that and became very proficient at all facets.
A very successful landowner, a most successful businessman and an earned Rank of Major General in the Territorial Army. I commend
Gerald, Duke of Westminster who has succeeded in the three disciplines mentioned and is one of the richest men in the Country.
He was also I understand a more than useful sportsman so excelled at most challenges.
PW could have probably done equally as well so it is so sad that his advisors didn’t have the foresight to look a little more into the future and advised him in a more satisfactory manner.
August 6th, 2008 11:22
Ked, I was looking at photos from a press agency like Bruno, but the name has left me. There were photos of Mike and I believ they were from Gatcombe, but he stayed in Land Rover seems like out of view of most of the prying lenses. Is it me or does Zara look as though she could be pregnant? I know she has a curvy figure but in current pics at Getty her stomach looks larger than normal. I would not think she would ride horses is she was, so I just say to myself maybe its a bad angle. I don’t ride horses so I don’t know if it is normal for women to ride pregnant. Just an observation though.
If Philip were to pass, do you think the Queen would still reign or make Charles King? I wish Philip well, but I thought prostate was a hard one to knock out, if indeed it is true. That explains why William would run Sandringham and the rush of his schedule, perhaps a wedding so that the both the Queen and Philip would be able to attend. IMO
August 6th, 2008 11:27
Ked, I totally agree. Seems like he should be concentrating on things that are relavant to running Sandringham. What a daunting task this will be for William. If the prostate rumors are to be proven true, he might be thrown in there quicker than he knows. Sad thing about cancer, you don’t know when it will take you.
August 6th, 2008 11:30
The firm knows better than our plausible nice suggestions of PW Royal training.
August 6th, 2008 11:31
Me, nobody’s perfect.
August 6th, 2008 11:33
I’m sorry, but the Firm has managed and has their objectives well planned. I am just saying that although we the posters have “nice” suggestions, whatever apprenticeship, training PW does has a reason to be. They know perfectly well.
August 6th, 2008 11:45
Me,
And do you think that PW’s reputation and popularity has increased during his service career.
Pub crawls,Helicopters, blonds in barracks, problematic and controversial stag nights.
I think things could have been managed a little better, surely you must agree ?
gracie,
I do hope that your correct and MT was at Gatcombe supporting Zara. I have been a little apprehensive by his non appearances lately.
He’s a super guy and I do hope he and Zara hold up.
I would think your other suggestion may be held to be contoversial but who knows in our modern society.
I’m sure no one who knows them would have any objections.
August 6th, 2008 11:49
Ked, as gracie said – nobody is perfect, other than the Helicopter rides, PW is in a growing period: blonds in barracks, pub crawls, etc.
What I’m saying is that the firm is the oldest establishment and they perfectly know what they are doing.
PW will be ruling for an era that will be past my time. According to the serious and non serious polls he, including KM are very popular.
August 6th, 2008 11:55
gracie,
I’m sorry to double post but must refer to the alleged postate cancer that it is rumoured Prince Philip ufers from
All I know is that a former International sportsman and Rugby player, Andy Ripley has acknowledged that he is recovering from Prostate Cancer diagnosed in 2006. It is said that the older one is when diagnosed the less viigorous the cancer is. I do hope PP has many more yeras of active life ahead.
I do not think HM would give up the throne under any circumstance but Charles could be appointed The Prince Regent if her health ever deteriorated to an extent that she could no longer reign.
August 6th, 2008 11:58
PP is 87 years old, any kind of sickness or even old age may cause death at that age.
If the news is true or false, or even a false alarm, we should just pray and wish him for better or good health, me thinks.
August 6th, 2008 12:00
If Zara is pregnant, and I say IF, why just get it out there. It would not effect they way I think of her or Mike. In instances like Philip’s health CH makes the mistakes as do the RF of not being honest with the public so when RF wants good PR, it makes you question if it is legitimate. They need to learn that they can’t have it both ways and I think this is where CH makes its greatest mistakes. Although the RF are a stubborn bunch, so it can’t help but make CH job all the more difficult.
So if William is to run Sandringham, then would he not be living there and not moving back into CH with Charles as the media has said? Although William will have people who would work for him, sounds like a full-time job to me. Sandringham is huge!
August 6th, 2008 12:01
Me,
I was only pointing out that his advisors could have chosen a different training for him that would be more relevant to his immediate requirements.
As I understand it the popularity stakes atand as follows;
PW = X% of those asked
PW+KM=(X+Y)% where Y>X
August 6th, 2008 12:01
The last paragraph has to do with my thoughts on PW training, apprenticeship since he was born to be King, etc. The Firm KNOWS what there doing with dash training with the Military, full royal duties starting next year, etc.
The firm knows, it all has a reason to be.
The age gap between HM, PoW, PW. Think about it. And once again, yes all nice suggestions of we the posters are valid, BUT the BRF has it all planned out.
August 6th, 2008 12:02
Woops, The last paragraph of your previous post Ked…go on
August 6th, 2008 12:12
If the reports are true I wish Prince Philip a speedy recovery. I agree that it would explain why William would take over running Sandringham next year. You know I have a hunch that the original plan was for William to spend more years in the military than he has. But maybe the Queen decided it was time for him to start being a full time royal sooner rather than later. She and PP are getting older & Prince Charles can’t shoulder the load all by himself.
August 6th, 2008 12:36
Me,
Agreed.
The % sign is a nonsense
August 6th, 2008 12:40
The denial by the palace was worded interestingly. They said it is untrue that he had prostate cancer. They didn’t say he was perfectly healthy or fine etc. Theoretically this denial leaves the possibility open that he may have some other condition an other type of cancer even since they didn’t say he doesn’t have cancer either.
I really hope this is not true at all. What type of paper is the Evening Standard? Is it usually reliable or a tabloid?
August 6th, 2008 12:46
Trixie,
The ES is a broadsheet or a newspaper not a tabloid. I don’t live in England so I can’t say for sure if they’re 100% reliable but they did break the news of Charles and Camilla’s engagement.
August 6th, 2008 12:59
Its HM’s favorite newspaper !
August 6th, 2008 13:05
Hello all,
The Evening Standard has the same owner as the Daily Mail and is often used by the DM to promote next days stories in DM or M on S but is usually reliable without the headline seeking reporters of DM.
August 6th, 2008 13:19
Hello,
If the true or untrue news about PP does anything , it should act as a warning to Guys approaching middle 40’s.
Ask your GP for a PSA test and act on the results.
I understand treatment these days can be very effective unless cancer is very vigorous and there is a new drug available that can even help the more advanced cases.
August 6th, 2008 13:38
or old age, cancer treatment to patients above 80 – I understand the cure is worst, they wouldn’t resist the aggressive quimio or radio therapy.
August 6th, 2008 13:39
plus cut here and there.
August 6th, 2008 14:15
Me,
The new drug, ABIRATERONE in pill form is said to cure most Prostate Cancers wih age immaterial.
It was in fact developed at Royal Marsdon Hospital which is part of one of PW’s chariries.
It i said to be available for general use in 2 years time.
Perhaps PP .. but we’ll see.
August 6th, 2008 14:16
Spelling. Sorry *charities*
August 6th, 2008 14:50
BP has denied this, they have said that it is untrue, why are we still discussing it?
August 6th, 2008 14:56
… because there’s nothing else to talk about?
August 6th, 2008 15:03
And it isn’t like BP wouldn’t lie about it. Especially if Prince Philip doesn’t want this out there for public consumption. I’ll wait to see if the Evening Standard issues a retraction or some sort of public apology.
August 6th, 2008 15:25
As Me, has stated Philip and the Queen are both getting up there in age so it only makes sense that they are planning for the future. I do agree with Ked though that William should start focusing on the job that he will perform and be done already with the military.
August 6th, 2008 15:41
Ked, how did you know that Autumn and Peter are going to Bejing?
August 6th, 2008 16:39
gracie.,
I don’t know that they are going to Bejing. All I heard was that they were leaving for Hong Kong today and asked if anyone knew why .
I did say that perhaps they would join Mark Phillips at the games and that his mother was missing the opening ceremony but would go as member of Olympic Committee.
Sorry for any misunderstanding.
August 6th, 2008 16:41
Trixie,B,nikki,
There may be more behind the BP comment and I think we should just leave it and wait for further news.
August 6th, 2008 16:48
Hello,
Just a final word on the Prostate Cancer and guys younger than 40.
It can happen at any age and I do have knowledge of someone in middle 30’s who was diagnosed and treated for it.
Any doubts see the GP and sooner the better I understand.
August 6th, 2008 21:34
With PP’s age, plus high blood pressure, and lung weakness, the drugs are very hard on the kidneys, and might enlarge his bladder causing it to thin. In a younger male, no biggie, but with his advanced age, and compromised system, might be rash.
August 7th, 2008 07:31
Perhaps he simply has an enlarged prostate, which is common in most men after a certain age?
Let’s not forget, the British press has a tendency to exaggerate and blow things out of proportion, this much we know already.
Just look at previous health scare rumours they have started about the others — remember when the Queen was pictured with a plaster on her hand and they implied something more sinister? Well, a year later and this marvelous lady looks as healthy as ever — so what does the press know?
August 8th, 2008 00:40
can you stop talking about KM and PW in an article that is dedicated solely to beatrice, eugene, and the duchess? It is ok to be interested and excited but I just believe that people has crosssed the line from being excited to being obsessed. So far we have no news about KM and PW so lets stop being obsessed with them in this article, and lets concentrate on making comments about the princesses and their mother. By the way, how are they funding for this trip?, are they using english taxes to pay for their bodyguards? seriously, this is ridiculus on how people from the royal family use people’s taxes to pay for bodyguards while they are on holidays.
August 8th, 2008 05:45
Yesterdays Richard Kay artlce talks about PW and KM
Keep on posting and have fun
August 8th, 2008 06:28
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1042724/Tough-phone-tycoon.html
August 8th, 2008 06:29
Thanks Me, Good find, just a small mention of PW & KM in the article…
“The royal lovebirds, meanwhile, are staying at the five-bedroom villa owned by John and Belle Robinson, the owners of the Jigsaw clothing chain for whom Kate worked as an accessories buyer.”
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1042724/Tough-phone-tycoon.html
Grrr! Beaten to the post by 1 minute!
August 8th, 2008 06:32
“Mobile phone tycoon David Ross may well be tempted to call a friend for advice this weekend as he parties on the sun-kissed island of Mustique with Prince William and his girlfriend Kate Middleton.”
“The party on the island is to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Mustique Company, which was founded by Brian Alexander – younger brother of Earl Alexander of Tunis, who is organising this weekend’s bash – and Princess Margaret’s chum Lord Glenconner.
Other guests who will be joining in the fun are Colin Fenn, the former owner of cosmetics company Space NK, merchant banker Mark Cecil, plus publisher William Cash and his delightful wife, Vanessa Neumann – a one-time flame of Sir Mick Jagger, who is also expected to be there.
The royal lovebirds, meanwhile, are staying at the five-bedroom villa owned by John and Belle Robinson, the owners of the Jigsaw clothing chain for whom Kate worked as an accessories buyer. “
August 8th, 2008 06:40
Hello all,
You must remember that whatever Mr Kay of the Daily Mail says is almost always incorrect in fact many reports border on outright lies.
A few years ago he was rebuked in no uncertain terms by CH and Press Commission for his ‘activities in general’ with regard to his reporting of members of the Royal Family and associates.
Since that time he remained almost invisible but has over the past few monthshas lost no opportunity in penning his own vittriolic attacks initially on PW and PH but as KM’s popularity fell he transfererred his vile comments upon her and her family.
Naturally they are unable to respond so he can virtually say what he likes and makes up his sources to best advantage but never with any authenticity.
When was the last time he or his paper were correct in their forecasts or news and he and they resent that others now get more informative information than they do.
August 8th, 2008 07:36
Ked, actually he said in his war games related to KM job status, that whast his colleague Katie Nicholl said about the Queen of KM get a career/job was pure nonsence.
Anyway, in general I agree with all the royal correspondents, whatever and all they write with a grain or bucket of salt.
Real events and pics is what makes past articles true or untrue
August 8th, 2008 07:36
The press is playing games, would you agree ?
August 8th, 2008 09:33
ked ,
You are right about the DM. I’ve noticed they don’t get a lot of stories right and they seem to be wide off the mark these days when it comes to William and Kate. They seem to really want to cast them in a bad light. Remember the stories about Kate “snubbing” the Queen for Christmas, the Queen telling Kate to get a job, and recently the tacky headline about William and some blonde lady who supposedly is going to work for him? It’s pretty clear that DM journos don’t have very good sources anymore.
August 8th, 2008 10:14
Anyway, the small piece written by Kay about her – referred above – is not even a bad thing. Not saying if its true or untrue that they are vacationing in Mustique, but it pretty much is on line that the couple is there (the other tabs)
August 12th, 2008 09:25
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