The Princess of Wales shared a tender moment with George Cross hero Tony Gledhill, 88, as the royal family gathered to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's 100th birthday. The retired police officer, who won the award in 1966 for chasing down armed criminals, appeared delighted to meet the future queen.
Speaking afterwards, Mr Gledhill revealed that his late wife had urged him to attend the palace event before she passed away. He described the Princess as 'fantastic'. The King led commemorations for his 'darling mama', paying tribute to her life and legacy.
Charles personally presented special cards signed by himself and Queen Camilla to guests, and helped cut a cake distributed to 190 attendees at Buckingham Palace. The royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Princess Royal, posed for a portrait to mark the occasion.
The reception celebrated the late Queen's life, with guests from 45 of her patronages, including Cancer Research UK and the British Red Cross Society. Earlier, the King released a recorded address from Balmoral, reflecting on his mother's 'promise with destiny kept' and her devotion to the people she served.
Buckingham Palace's Marble Hall was decorated like a street party with bunting and historic curtains. Guests enjoyed champagne and a QEII cocktail made from the Queen's favourite Dubonnet. A Paddington Bear was spotted among roses, and the Band of the Household Cavalry played modern tunes.
