HAPPY BIRTHDAY, YOUR MAJESTY

Queen Camilla can reflect on the great affection she now enjoys with the public at the age of 77

- REBECCA RUSSELL

Queen Camilla’s journey is certainly one for the history books – but, if there is one thing that the past seven months have definitely proven, it is that she has grown into her role better than anyone could have ever hoped for. As she celebrates her 77th birthday, a royal expert points out why Her Majesty should feel rightly justified as her value continues to grow after many years of being one of the least popular members of the royal family.

“I remember so well the years when Camilla was kept in the shadows – what she went through would have broken any weaker woman,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond exclusively tells OK! “But she always had two factors in her favour: an unshakeable love for Charles and an ability to rise above the criticism and get on with life. And now she has won the respect and affection of many people in this country, and is thriving as a result.”

Even though the Queen is now at an age where most people have already put their feet up for a well-deserved rest, she is busier than ever as a modern and forward thinking consort who is readily tackling some of the most challenging causes – from domestic abuse and gender equality to female genital mutilation.