In a clear display of solidarity to scotch rumours of difficulties in her nine-year marriage, Princess Anne was accompanied by her husband Tim Laurence for a special occasion Wednesday when she was installed in the Most Ancient and Noble Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry.
The Princess Royal and Commodore Laurence were facing the cameras for the first time since reports suggested they were living “separate lives” but were avoiding a split for fear of further damaging the monarchy. Although the intention had obviously been to present a united family front – Zara and Peter, Anne’s children from her first marriage to Mark Phillips, were also present – the body language between the pair at the event was formal. Tim walked 50 feet behind his royal spouse as they left St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh where the ceremony was held and the two didn’t exchange a single word before leaving in separate cars.
The new honour was bestowed upon the Princess in recognition of her charity work in Scotland and her role as a representative for the royal family at events north of the border. It entitles her to be addressed as a Royal Lady of the Thistle.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
