As she turned 18 on Tuesday, Princess Beatrice revealed that the person who inspires her most is her mother. "She leads by example and her behaviour is one that I'd really like to follow," said the young royal, "I really want to build on what mummy is establishing."
Speaking during a visit to the Young People's Unit at University College Hospital in London, the Princess revealed the Duchess of York is "the best advice-giver I could possibly ever wish for". And the teenager is already following in the Duchess' footsteps, undertaking her first official charity engagement in the UK.
Smartly turned out in a black linen jacket, white blouse and a pair of sparkly shoes borrowed from her sister Eugenie, Beatrice spent an hour talking to young cancer patients alongside her mum, swapping stories about homework and school.
Fergie's elder daughter, who is fifth in line to the throne, has also revealed she's decided she'd prefer not to use the title Her Royal Highness, hers by right now she is 18. And she certainly doesn't expect anyone to curtsey to her. "I don't want any of that," she said:, "I'm just Beatrice."
The down-to-earth teen, who will complete A-levels in history, drama and film studies at St George's School in Ascot next year, is keen to use her royal profile responsibly. "Being in the public eye is, to me, a way of helping so many. I see it as a chance to make a difference." And she can expect plenty of support from her mum as well as her father Prince Andrew to make sure she is able to do exactly that. Despite their divorce, the couple remain famously close. "Andrew and I believe strongly in parental unity," said the Duchess. "He has been so steadfast, so fantastic."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
