How Princess Anne’s ex Andrew Parker Bowles remains a true friend in need: RICHARD EDEN’S DIARY

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Facing a crisis unlike any other, the royal family is realizing who truly supports them – those who are loyal only when things are going well, and those who stand by them even during difficult times.

No one demonstrates the loyalty of this second group more clearly than the modest person who attended Tuesday’s memorial service for Field Marshal Lord Guthrie at the Guards’ Chapel in London, representing Princess Anne.

Some people noticed prominent figures like Lord Heseltine and others at the event. However, others pointed out Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles – Queen Camilla’s first husband, and also a former romantic interest of Princess Anne – quietly attending.

Arthur Penn, usually called APB by those in the Household Cavalry, has occasionally acted on behalf of Anne in the past. However, considering he is 86 years old, it’s understandable if he’d like to step down from this role now.

Yet the bond between them means, I’m told, that he’ll soldier on for as long as he’s able.

Most people believe the couple first became romantically involved during Ascot week in June 1970. It seems fitting, as both families – the Parker Bowleses and the Windsors – were passionate about horses. This connection was strengthened by the friendship between the Parker Bowles’s father, Derek, and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

However, a romantic relationship with Parker Bowles was never going to result in marriage. Because Anne was a high-ranking member of the royal family, and fourth in line to the throne, she was expected to adhere to the Church of England. As a Catholic, Parker Bowles was therefore not a viable marriage partner, especially considering Anne’s future role as the head of the Church of England if she were to become queen.

Within three years, Andrew had married Camilla, and Anne had married her first husband, Mark Phillips.

In 1981, when Anne had her second child, Zara, she chose a close friend, APB, to be Zara’s godfather, publicly solidifying a friendship that continues to this day.

 

Spoiled for choice: Skyla raids her mum’s wardrobe treasures 

Growing up with fashion icon Liberty Ross as her mother meant Skyla Sanders always had a great sense of style. Now 21, she’s sharing just how much she was pampered growing up.

Skyla, the daughter of film director Rupert Sanders and Liberty, shared a look at her mother’s impressive Los Angeles walk-in closet – which she often borrows clothes from. Her parents separated in 2014 after Rupert Sanders was seen with Kristen Stewart.

In an online video, Skyla explains, ‘I’m from New York, and I often take things from wherever I am to bring home with me.’ She also describes herself as someone who loves to stand out and always overdo her style, wanting to be the most fashionable and noticeable person around.

The model displayed a wide variety of shoes, handbags, and clothing from brands like Agent Provocateur, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, and Prada.

Honestly, I’m so grateful we share the same sizes in shoes and clothes – it makes borrowing so much easier! And let me tell you, I completely understand her obsession with lip liner. I’m the same way! I swear I lose one every time I go out, and I’m pretty sure I’ve spent a fortune – easily over $2,000 – on Charlotte Tilbury lip liners alone. They’re just essential!

 

Oh, I just know Nadhim Zahawi is going to seriously regret jumping ship to Reform UK! I heard from someone who’s really close to him – Ibrahim Dogus – and he thinks this is a huge mistake for Nadhim. Honestly, I already feel bad for him; it just doesn’t seem like a good fit, and I think he’ll realize that soon enough. It’s a shame, really, but I’m telling you, this won’t end well for him.

The founder of the British Kebab Awards, which launched in 2013 with support from Zahawi, believes the Conservative MPs who have defected made the wrong decision. He predicts the Conservative Party will improve and those who left for Reform UK will come to regret their choice.

At an awards event held at London’s Park Plaza Westminster Hotel, with Labour’s David Lammy in attendance, Ibrahim discussed today’s by-election in Gorton and Denton. He stated that if Reform doesn’t win, people will lose faith in the party.

 

Heston’s £1.7m tax ‘oversight’ 

Although meals at Heston Blumenthal’s restaurants can cost up to £350 per person, reports suggest his company is struggling to pay its taxes.

I can confirm that the tax authority, HMRC, has started legal proceedings to potentially shut down SL6 Ltd, the company that owns the restaurants, due to unpaid taxes.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m always excited to share discoveries, and Heston Blumenthal’s ventures are consistently fascinating. From the multi-award-winning Fat Duck and the cozy Hinds Head, to his innovative Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, he truly knows how to create memorable experiences. Beyond the restaurants, I also keep an eye on his other projects – like Snail Porridge, his media company, and SL6 Appliances, which makes some really clever kitchen gadgets.

A hearing date hasn’t been scheduled, but recent financial records show a debt of £1.67 million for unpaid taxes and social security contributions.

According to a spokesperson, the error happened because of a mistake made while switching to a new accounting system.

 

Queen of Jeans’ tribute to fan Kate

Donna Ida appreciates that Princess Catherine always insists on paying for her jeans, despite being a high-profile customer.

Designers benefit more when royalty actually purchase clothing rather than simply accepting gifts, explains the Australian designer known as the ‘Queen of Jeans.’ Speaking at a pop-up shop in London, created with Dr. Sebagh, she says buying demonstrates genuine desire and support for a brand, rather than just unwanted items being distributed.

Donna also pointed out that the royals are always mindful of supporting businesses and prefer to pay for things themselves. She thinks they’re wonderful.

 

Harry Styles is performing at the Brit Awards on Saturday and is hoping for a successful night. Guests at the Sony Music after-party in Manchester will receive a gift bag containing a bottle of his £135 Pleasing perfume, along with Sony wireless headphones and skincare products from 111Skin. The total value of each goody bag is around £2,000.

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2026-02-26 03:49