India Hicks, the goddaughter of King Charles, has offered a glimpse into the monarch's thoughtfulness by recounting her "sweetest memory" of him—a yearly gift that initially confused her but later revealed his true character.
An Extraordinary Godfather
Hicks, a 58-year-old model and philanthropist, described Charles as an "extraordinary" man and an exceptional godfather. She told Gyles Brandreth on his Rosebud podcast that Charles never forgot a birthday or Christmas, sending boxes of letters over the years. "He is very considerate, very involved," she said, adding that despite having many godchildren, he remains attentive.
The Confusing Gift
Each year, Hicks received a cardboard box containing a single piece of china—a saucer, gravy dish, or cup. As a seven-year-old, she found it puzzling to receive a gravy dish for Christmas. However, as she grew older, the pieces accumulated into a complete dining set. By the time she was 27 or 37, she realized the gift was "extraordinary" and "useful," far more valuable than a plastic toy.
Hicks, who once modeled for Ralph Lauren and now designs fashion and homeware, believes this gift reflects Charles' forward-thinking nature. "The idea of thinking forward, something that would mean something later in life," she explained. As a godparent herself, she aspires to emulate that thoughtful approach.
Personal Life and Health
Hicks lives in Oxfordshire with her husband, former advertising executive David Flint Wood. Last year, she faced a health scare when skin cancer was found on her calf during a check-up. She had the cancer removed immediately and has since become more vigilant about sun exposure, urging others with fair skin to get regular checks.
An ambassador for The King's Trust, Hicks remains grateful for her godfather's influence, noting that his consistent, considerate gifts taught her the value of long-term thinking.
