Princess Anne's no-nonsense attitude, ability to rewear decades-old outfits and unwavering dedication to the job is what makes her so popular, and a recent visit to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow showed just how self-effacing she is compared to her brother, the Duke of Edinburgh.
A Quiet Presence at the Games
Working at the bowls event, the Princess Royal's arrival was notably low-key. She walked in the main entrance chatting with an official, her husband in tow, with only one police protection officer keeping his distance behind them. When they sat in the stands, it was just Anne, Sir Tim, and the official in the row, with no security seated nearby.
Her unassuming nature was so striking that when a journalist stood at a distance documenting the visit, she was stopped and asked what she was doing. Repeatedly explaining that the Princess Royal was in the stands, most replied they had no idea she was even there.
A Marked Contrast with the Duke of Edinburgh
In contrast, when Anne's brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, visited, he was joined by his private secretary and a handful of police protection officers. His arrival was more marked, as he stopped to chat with people, asked to play one of the performers' drums, and sat in a prominent position in the stands, making him more visible.
The difference between the siblings was marked, and the same was true when Edward later visited with his wife, the Duchess of Edinburgh. They sat with their protection officers and private secretary, making it hard to miss their presence.
A Birthday Marked Quietly
As Anne celebrates her 76th birthday today, this will likely be marked in a similar fashion to her work - quietly and privately. Last year, when she turned 75, royal sources said she had to be persuaded to pose for an official portrait, as she didn't believe it was a significant milestone worthy of wider celebration.
This modesty is why she is so well liked. A recent Daily Express poll, running from August 11-13, asked readers who their favourite royal was. Anne came a close second with 765 votes, narrowly beaten by the Prince of Wales on 782.
