THE BIGGEST TEST OF THEIR LIVES

King Charles has always that a maintained "slimmed-down K monarchy" was the way forward following the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II. 

However, even his own sister, Princess Anne, has pointed out that it "doesn't sound like a good idea". Now, more than a year since the King ascended the throne, Woman's Day's palace insiders confess the decision to streamline The Firm, which includes just four members under the age of 70 - the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh - is less than ideal for the family.

It's a problem that's putting a lot of pressure on the two couples, who are each trying to raise families and balance increasing duties.

ROYAL ROUGH PATCH

"It appears everything is piling on them at once," says the insider, who reveals that William and Kate are suffering the most.

"The reality of the situation has put enormous stress on their home life," they add, noting that the busy parents are going through something of "a rough patch" when it comes to balancing their duties.

"William is extremely stressed, and you can tell by his constant jaw-clenching," one palace sleuth confides.

Adding to William's anguish is said to be a constant fear that his 74-year-old father's health and well-being could see the heir serving as a regent sooner than he ever expected.