Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were accompanied by Beth Herlihy, a former royal aide, during their recent visit to Nottingham. The couple made their first public appearance since returning to the UK in August, with Herlihy following closely behind, helping to carry flowers and balloons handed to them by well-wishers.
From Soap Actress to Royal Aide
Herlihy, who serves as the Sussexes' programme coordinator, is the co-founder of PR boutique Herlihy Loughran. Before entering royal circles, she had a career as a soap actress, appearing under her stage name Bethan Coundley. She played Honey, a stripper, in two episodes of Channel 4's Hollyoaks Later in 2011.
Beth also took part in several racy photoshoots, including one in 2012 where she posed in a PVC catsuit. She later transitioned to a career in PR and, within a few years, was working at Kensington Palace.
Role with the Sussexes
Herlihy now works with the Sussexes after setting up an advisory firm for high-profile figures in the philanthropic sector. She founded the business with Clara Loughran, another former royal aide who worked as Harry's former programme manager.
By the Queen's recommendation, on Harry's suggestion, Beth was made a Member of the Royal Victorian Order, an honour given to those who have served the monarchy with dedication in a personal capacity.
Financial Details and Background
According to a tax return filed by Archewell Philanthropies, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's charity, Harry and Meghan paid Herlihy Loughran £115,912 for strategic advisory services. In 2022, Herlihy Loughran was paid £95,577 by the charity.
Ms Herlihy was previously hired as an events manager at the Royal Foundation, the joint charitable vehicle for the now-Prince and Princess of Wales and the Sussexes. After the Sussexes left the company in 2018, she remained by their side.
In September 2023, Beth was spotted talking with Harry at the Invictus Games in Germany. The pair chatted in the stands as they watched a wheelchair basketball match between Team UK and Ukraine in Düsseldorf. Ms Herlihy appears to have remained loyal to Harry and Meghan after they decided to return to the UK after six years living in California.
