In a touching moment during the Royal Family's traditional Christmas Day walk, Prince William personally greeted a well-known supporter of his late mother, Princess Diana, and introduced him to the young Wales children.
A Personal Greeting in the Festive Crowd
As they made their way to the church service at Sandringham on 25 December, the Prince of Wales and his family stopped to greet well-wishers who had braved the cold. Prince William, 42, immediately recognised 70-year-old superfan John Loughrey in the crowd and called out to him by name.
"John, how are you?" William asked, before encouraging his youngest son, Prince Louis, to shake the fan's hand. He then introduced Loughrey to Prince George and Princess Charlotte. George wished the fan a Merry Christmas, while Charlotte also shook his hand.
"Nanny Diana Would Be Ever So Proud of You"
The interaction took an emotional turn when Loughrey, while holding George's hand, delivered a heartfelt message. He told the future king, "Nanny Diana would be ever so proud of you." Prince William responded warmly, saying "That's very kind of you John," and George himself added a polite "Thank you."
Loughrey, from Wandsworth in south-west London, is famous for his signature hat covered in royal memorabilia badges. He had arrived at the Norfolk estate at 9pm on Christmas Eve, waiting overnight in a fold-up chair to be first in line to see the royals.
Princess Kate's Jovial Remark and Royal Recognition
Later, the Princess of Wales also made a point of speaking to Loughrey. With a smile, she joked, "I see you everywhere." She thanked him for a bouquet of flowers he had given her and, before walking away, added, "Hopefully I will see you at our next engagement."
Loughrey also presented the royal children with Christmas gifts, including chocolate and a large teddy bear which Prince Louis appeared especially delighted by. Even King Charles acknowledged the dedicated fan, noting that his badge collection had grown since the previous year.
The Christmas Day service saw most of the Royal Family in attendance, though the King's brother, the Duke of York, was notably absent. His daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, were however present at Sandringham with other relatives.
