'CAMILLA WILL BE THE BEST QUEEN SHE CAN'

AS QUEEN CAMILLA TURNS 76, WE PAY TRIBUTE TO THE KING'S "SOULMATE, ROCK AND FRIEND"

- REBECCA RUSSELL

They say that behind every great man is a great woman – and that’s certainly the case when it comes to our very own King Charles.

Since his accession in September last year, Queen Camilla, who celebrated her 76th birthday this week, has been right by his side as he’s taken over the role of monarch from his beloved mother.

Indeed the King and Queen’s relationship is said to be stronger than ever – something that was evident during their official engagements in Cornwall last week.

Speaking exclusively to OK!, royal expert Jennie Bond reflects on the couple’s enduring partnership. “Camilla is Charles’s soulmate, his rock, his sounding board, his friend, and, as he always says, ‘his darling wife’,” remarks Jennie. “She soothes him, comforts him and makes him laugh.”

They’ve always had lots in common including a wicked sense of humour, a love of the great outdoors and gardening, an affection for animals, including their two rescue Jack Russell terriers Beth and Bluebell, and a passion for country pursuits. But Jennie also points out that, such is the depth of their bond, they’re often simply content to be in one another’s company.

“As Camilla herself has said, they like nothing better than to just be the two of them, sitting quietly, reading their books,” Jennie adds. “No need to talk; just enjoy being together.”

Despite this image of quiet bliss, at an age where most people are enjoying a well-earned retirement, Queen Camilla is busier than ever. During the past year especially, she has seen a huge step up in her public role and constitutional duties.