Since joining the Royal Family, Camilla has proved a worthy addition, a rock to Charles and a much-loved presence.
Now, in the Queen’s historic address, she has received the ultimate accolade.
Elizabeth II has reigned for 70 years and been an exemplary monarch.
Her calm demeanour, sense of duty and loyalty to her country have made her beloved here and around the world.
Now, on this most special of days, she has set out part of the country’s future: Camilla. The grand gesture of announcing that Charles’s wife will become Queen Consort is the very highest mark of respect. It shows her trust and admiration for a woman she believes will continue the tradition of service she has worked hard to uphold.
It has not been easy for Camilla to follow Diana, so loved by so many.
Yet she has risen to the challenge with quiet dignity and been a steady presence in tumultuous times that have engulfed the family. For the Queen to call on us to give Camilla our support when she takes her place is a typically wondrous gesture. It forms the centre of a special message from a special monarch, so adept at finding the right words at the right time.
Another mark of Her Majesty’s great sense of respect and loyalty is that she should take time to mention how she can still recall her father’s death.
And there is no mistaking her palpable excitement for the momentous Jubilee.
As she declares, just like with all her service over 70 years, she will continue to lead “with all my heart”.
