Kate, 44, seemed to have a ready-made ally in the Duchess of Edinburgh, 61, who was by the Princess of Wales' side for much of yesterday's Order of the Garter Service in Windsor.

The King and Queen led a full turn-out of senior royals today at one of the highlights of the palace calendar.

Kate, 44, seemed to have a ready-made ally in the Duchess of Edinburgh, 61, who was by the Princess of Wales' side for much of yesterday's Order of the Garter Service in Windsor.