Charlie's angels THE ROYAL WOMEN STEPPING UP

As the King recuperates, Camilla has the backing of two loyal Firm companions

The King might be forced into putting his feet up while he recovers from surgery, but at least he has the consolation of knowing three of his nearest and dearest are keeping calm and carrying on on his behalf.

His wife, Queen Camilla, has stepped up as the most senior royal family member while Charles, 75, has been out of action. His Majesty’s sister Princess Anne and sister-in-law Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, have also been holding down the fort, with Anne doing an investiture ceremony in place of the King, who is recuperating after a procedure for an enlarged prostate.

With his daughter-in-law the Princess of Wales also out of action because of her own surgery for abdominal issues, and his son Prince William taking time out to look after her and their children, the royal family is currently massively understaffed. But Camilla, Anne and Sophie are all extremely dedicated to duty, knowing they need to make up for the King being out of the public eye for as much as a month.

As the The Firm’s hardestworking royal, the King’s absence will be felt. But while most of his engagements are being rescheduled, it’s expected there will be occasions when one of “Charlie’s angels” – as they’ve been nicknamed by the British press – will be officiating for him.