In a fairytale ceremony just over five years ago Mette-Marit Tjessem Hoiby walked down the aisle of Oslo Cathedral to pledge herself to Crown Prince Haakon of Norway. And at recent festitivies to mark the couple's fifth anniversary, the continuing strength and commitment of their union were there for all to see.
At a photocall the princess gazed lovingly at her husband, holding him tenderly by the arm. For his part Haakon beamed proudly, perhaps thinking back on how life has changed in recent years with the expansion of their family. As well as caring for nine-year-old Marius, the princess' son from a previous relationship, the royal pair are parents to Ingrid, who is two, and Sverre Magnus, eight months.
For the event at Oslo's Spikersuppa park the heir to the throne and his wife were joined by volunteers involved in the humanitarian fund founded at the time of their wedding. Through the project the couple channel support to a range of organisations such as those working with AIDS victims and on church missions.
And Mette-Marit has spoken movingly of how Haakon's concern for others is a key part of his attraction. "Haakon's a generous person, and one of the most tolerant people on Earth," she says. "He has strong inner moral code and he lives by it. He never speaks negatively about anyone."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
