THE MONARCHY

IT was not so long ago when the monarchy seemed to be struggling for its very survival.

In the space of just two decades there have been two messy divorces, an explosive book about the infidelity of the heir to the throne, Camillagate, and the exploits and shenanigans of the Duchess of York. The perceived lack of emotional reaction from Buckingham Palace over the death of Princess Diana capped the turmoil of the Royal Household which looked to have lost its way. There was no doubt that public esteem for the Royal Family had hit a historic low.

HOW different the picture looks today. Prince Harry’s wedding to the thoroughly modern actress Meghan Markle has done far more than simply place a seal over a fairytale romance. It has symbolised the monarchy’s evolution into a contemporary institution fit for the 21st century.

And what a glorious day it was. A day in which tradition and modernity were fused in perfect harmony. We had a mixed-race divorcee bride being led down the aisle by our future king, a black Episcopalian clergyman officiating, and gospel singers complementing a traditional choir. On the hymn sheet were the soul anthem Stand By Me and that great Welsh and stirring hymn Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer.

Of course, the rehabilitation of the House of Windsor is about more than this one event. It has been a slow and gradual process.

Much of the transformative changes owes a great deal to Prince William and his own bride, who with their three children are blossoming into a modern family.

Prince Charles himself has also changed from a rather haughty, sometimes petulant royal into a more rounded and contented soul.

Above all, it has been the fortitude and selfless hard work of Her Majesty The Queen – supported in rock-like fashion by the Duke of Edinburgh – which has kept the monarchy on the rails. Through the tumult she has remained a shining example of how a sovereign should act.

If the Duchess of Sussex needs any advice, she should seek counsel from the Queen. Over the course of 65 years, she has proved herself to be the greatest royal diplomat of all.