A jovial King Charles exchanged a joke with Donald Trump as they inspected a Guard of Honour at Windsor Castle today, marking the start of the US president's historic second state visit to Britain. The King told Mr Trump to 'watch the sword' as a soldier raised his blade, prompting both to laugh.
The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the Trumps upon their arrival by helicopter in the Walled Garden on the Windsor estate. Mr Trump told Kate: 'You're beautiful', according to a lip reader. William and Kate then walked with the Trumps to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla outside Victoria House.
Queen Camilla had recovered from acute sinusitis to attend, having missed the Duchess of Kent's funeral. The King presented Mr Trump with the Union Flag that flew above Buckingham Palace on his inauguration day, along with a hand-bound leather volume celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Melania Trump received a silver and enamel bowl and a personalised Anya Hindmarch handbag.
In return, the Trumps gave King Charles a replica of a President Eisenhower Sword, and Queen Camilla received a Tiffany & Co. diamond and ruby brooch. The royal couple also gave the Trumps a silver photograph frame engraved with their joint cypher.
The couple toured St George's Chapel, where Queen Elizabeth II is buried. Mr Trump described the artefacts he was shown as 'the real deal'. The visit included a Guard of Honour inspection and music from the Band of the Household Cavalry in state dress.
