His QUEEN CONSORT

Camilla will be crowned alongside her husband King Charles III on 6 May. They've known each other for over 50 years, and have both overcome turbulent times in their private and public lives

- JANE KEMP

Charles and Camilla share so much not least a love of horses, dogs and gardens - and a great sense of humour. Their friendship goes back more than half a century, and they've been married for 18 years. It's clear they're happy and relaxed in each other's company, and Charles often pays tribute to the support offered by his 'darling wife'.

Meeting his match

Twenty-three-year-old Camilla Shand was introduced to Charles, Prince of Wales at a polo fixture in 1970. He was a year her junior and a keen polo player. They had a curious link in their family backgrounds Camilla's great-great-grandmother, Alice Keppel, had been the young mistress of King Edward VII.

Meeting Charles there, Camilla piqued his interest as she fussed over his pony. Their mutual attraction led to a promising relationship - but it did not survive. Charles joined the Navy and went away to sea.

In 1973, Camilla married Major Andrew Parker Bowles, despite Charles' pleas not to go ahead.

Charles went on to have other relationships, before marrying Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, but it's clear he never lost his friendship with Camilla, who by now had two children.