LEADING LADIES - BEHIND OUR GREAT KING, THERE ARE GREAT WOMEN

QUEEN CAMILLA LEADS A ROYAL QUARTET WHO PLAY A PIVOTAL ROLE IN THE NEW-LOOK MONARCHY

- REBECCA RUSSELL

Following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II, who was universally adored for her dedication to duty, has been no easy feat - but it is safe to say that King Charles is making a success of it.

A year into his reign, the King's popularity has soared as he continues to prove he will be a monarch for a thoroughly modern age. Of course, this triumph has been down to the King's own work ethic, but it is also thanks to the support of the strong royal women who surround him.

While Queen Camilla is a shoulder for the King, 74, to lean on in tough times, as well as a provider of gentle words of encouragement, there are three other relatives who play a pivotal role.

First on the list is the Princess of Wales. Bound by their shared love of art and all things culture, Kate, 41, and her father-in-law have enjoyed a warm relationship for many years. She is the daughter King Charles never had, as former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond points out.

"There's little doubt that Charles would have loved a daughter. He's really quite a softie at heart and it is said that he was disappointed when Harry turned out to be a boy," she says. "So, for the King, it's a delight that he gets on so well with Kate.

He has watched her grow into her role, find the causes she truly cares about and has supported her endeavours." As for what the King loves most about Kate who he has called his "darling daughter-in-law" - Jennie says, "I think Charles admires and appreciates the solid family network she has created for William.

The King is devoted to his grandchildren George, Charlotte and Louis, and photographs show that he has an easy relationship with all three. I'm sure he is very proud of the way Kate is bringing them up."

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams says the King feels full of pride at how naturally the Princess has taken to life within the royal family. He says her public image is a very important asset.