Lady Gabriella Windsor opens up about Kate Middleton's touching gesture
Lady Gabriella Windsor has praised the the Princess of Wales for her "very thoughtful" gesture following the death of Lady Windsor's husband Thomas Kingston.
Lady Windsor, fondly known as Ella, suffered the loss of Mr Kingston, who in February last year was found dead with a "traumatic head wound" and a gun near his body in an outbuilding of his parents' Cotswolds home. In the following months, the Princess of Wales supported Ella, daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, and invited the 45-year-old woman to advise on her Together At Christmas carol service last year.
"It was such an honour to be involved, and very thoughtful and kind-hearted of the Princess to include me [in the carol concert]," Lady Windsor told HELLO! magazine this week.
"I was very touched. She was so lovely to work with, always gracious, very creative and with so much vision and passion for the many charities and causes she supports."
Ella, who is King Charles ' second cousin, described the annual Christmas gathering as a "brilliant idea". She told HELLO!: "The Princess's carol concert is such a brilliant event and idea, to thank and shine a light on hundreds of the most outstanding charities in the UK."
In December, Lady Windsor, who is a singer and songwriter, warned about the effects of drugs used to treat mental health problems as a coroner ruled her husband stopped taking his medication in the days leading to his death. The coroner ruled Mr Kingston's death was that of suicide.
Since her grief, the royal has also been using music to inspire young people and as a tool to help others. She became patron of the charity Restore The Music, which supports state school music departments. Some of its musicians performed at the Princess of Wales's concert last December.
"Music can do so much to help build confidence, imagination and social skills - all of which are, I believe, essential to learning," said Lady Windsor in a statement on the Restore The Music website.
"On a recent visit to a school served by Restore the Music I was dazzled by the student performances, Rachmaninoff on piano, jazz saxophone, drums and Spanish guitar. They transported us to another place - far from a school classroom.
"What a stunning snapshot of talent, teaching and world class instruments, funded by Restore the Music. It is such an honour to serve as Patron to this exceptional charity which creates opportunities for children to thrive through the power of music."
Lady Windsor is the King's second cousin. They are both great-grandchildren of King George V.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Glasgow Times
11 minutes ago
- Glasgow Times
Meet the family who perform at Zippos Circus in Glasgow
Others might see it through less fond eyes thinking of clowns that scare them and animals being involved in the acts, both which are now a thing of the past. But for two stars of Zippo's Circus and their young daughter, it is everything they could ask for. It is a world of adrenaline, tight-knit community and a unique family life that has been forged through very different paths into the heart of the show. Neither of them came from a circus family, one is from Kent in England and the other is from Brazil and they have brought their young daughter up while travelling with Zippo's around the UK over the last six years. Jackie Louise has been on the road with Zippo's for 18 years now, and it all started with a simple internet search. Jackie performing her act (Image: Gordon Terris/The Herald) She had completed a degree in theatre studies and was captivated by a television show featuring celebrities attempting circus acts. "I thought, that looks really cool. I want to try and be that girl spinning in the air," she recalls. "So I literally googled circus schools." Her search led her to a six-month touring school run by Zippo's but she needed a bit of luck, which is probably a good thing in her line of work. She explained: "They were actually fully booked already that year, but they had someone drop out at the last minute, which is why they had a space. "If they hadn't had that space, I wouldn't have gone. And I think I would have not ever joined the circus." From that fortuitous opening, she honed her skills, eventually earning a contract and a career that has now spanned 18 years. Her partner's entry into the circus world was starkly different, rooted in a childhood in Brazil. Walter was 12-years old when the circus came to his town and he decided that was what he wanted to do. "Where I live is like a little bit poor life, a little bit danger," he shares. Seeking a better path, he approached the circus and asked for a job. Initially told he was too young, he was offered a chance to sell popcorn. That small opportunity was his gateway. He continued: "I started selling popcorn and grew up, then I start to practice the globe and trampoline, other acts as well. "We are seven kids, seven brothers and sisters, it's quite hard in that time," he reflects. "I think my mum said, 'maybe it's going to be a good idea because for helping him.'" The pair met while working for Zippos and have been joined at the hip ever since. Their acts, which can be seen in Glasgow's Queen's Park until Monday, August 4, include the Spanish web where Jackie spins high above the stage, and a daring crossbow act they perform together. The adrenaline rush from it might be exciting, but is there any fear? READ NEXT: 20 objections received for this plan for Newton Mearns home READ NEXT: Major Glasgow Central railway line to be closed multiple times in August Jackie confessed: "The crossbow was scary when we were first started to practice because it's a new act for us this year. "The first time I stood in front of an arrow coming towards my head, I was very scared. We do it twice a day, every day, so it's not scary anymore. "I'm a bit of an adrenaline junkie to be fair. I just like anything that scares me a little bit." The unique career choice does mean family life is a bit different, particularly for their young daughter Lexi. She is raised on the road, travelling around the UK and being home-schooled by her mum. It can be a bit difficult at times and Jackie has admitted that at some point she knows she will have to give up performing and give Lexi a more traditional schooling, although that was something the six-year-old immediately shook her head at. She wants to stay in the circus for as long as possible. Far from being a reluctant participant, Lexi is thoroughly immersed in the circus world. When asked if she enjoys it, her answer is a simple, enthusiastic "Yeah." She is a regular spectator, declaring, "I like watching the show all the time," and even practices on the ropes herself. She has her own clear ambitions: "I want to do the crossbow with my feet," she says with determination. With neither of Jackie or Walter being from traditional circus families, there could have been a bit of a nervousness to get involved but both say they have been welcomed with open arms. Jackie continued: "Circus people are much more accepting of newbies coming in now. It's just one big community and a big family... Everyone just helps everyone." The appeal of the lifestyle is multifaceted. It's the constant travel and discovery, "to explore the country and not have to pay for it," and the satisfaction of a successful performance. Yet, the future is a persistent consideration. The pull to provide a more conventional, full-time education for Lexi conflicts with their love for their life's work. The thought of leaving the circus after nearly two decades is a scary one, and not just because they would have to get new jobs but also the fact they would not be spending every minute of the day together. When asked what she would do if she did retire from performing, Jackie responded: "I've no idea. That is why I haven't stopped circus because I literally am petrified of what I will do with my life." Walter harbours a long-held ambition to one day run his own show but their focus is on Zippos Circus and continuing to travel around the UK, with a nod that Scotland's crowds are always the best and trips to the North East of the country are often their favourite with the views particularly enthralling on travel days and what comes next remains a decision for another day. For now, their life remains a whirlwind of performance, practice, and travel, a nomadic existence that has become their normal. From a speculative google search to a boy selling popcorn in Brazil, their stories converge in a life that is as challenging as it is rewarding, held together by family, community, and the enduring magic of the circus. Zippo's Circus will be performing at Queen's Park in Glasgow until Monday August 4 with multiple shows on the same day. They will also be performing in Kirkintilloch from Wednesday, August 6 until Monday, August 11 and in Ayr from Wednesday August 13 until Sunday, August 17. Tickets are available to book at
Metro
2 hours ago
- Metro
Phlur, Anthropologie & M&S — where our shopping expert's spending this weekend
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Sorry, but where has the time gone? One minute it was July, now it's August — and while we wait (impatiently) for the heatwave to make its grand return, here's your latest edition of Trend Trove, aka your go-to for everything HOT from the high street. Our shopping expert's been out doing the Lord's work again, and she's uncovered the best of the best — from the return of Dusk's five-time sell-out lamp to FACEGYM's new skincare that we need to buy immediately. PHLUR's dropped another dreamy scent (warning: it's addictive AF), and Smythson's already thinking ahead with their 2026 diaries. Yes, really. She's also found jewellery that'll make your group chat scream, pjs to keep you cool for heatwave 2.0 (we're manifesting), IT girl trainers, and the trench coat everyone will be wearing this AW25. Oh, and plenty of shoes, homeware and beauty bits that'll have your bank account crying — or just bookmark for payday, birthdays, or Christmas (because it's never too early, right?). And while we cling to our favourite summer dress hoping for a sunny encore, Pret is bringing the vibes with limited-edition beaded cup holders to match their new iced lattes — available for one day only on Monday 4 August at three UK shops. Think Matcha, Ube Brûlée and Spirulina Macaron, with just 20 holders per location. It's first-come, first-served, so latte lovers, be quick. In other sweet news, Moonpig and Millie's Cookies are teaming up to celebrate exam results day with a delicious little freebie. From Monday 4 August, grab any treat in-store at Millie's and you'll get a code for a free Moonpig card — perfect for congratulating the smart cookie in your life. Whether it's a giant personalised bake or a box of their faves, you'll be able to send a card online or via the app, with designs for everything from results day to weddings and uni send-offs. Cute, right? FACEGYM is back with a glow-up for your skincare shelf — meet POWERLIFT , the new EMS Activator Gel that does way more than just conduct. Designed to supercharge your facial workouts and your skin, this multitasking gel is packed with heavy-hitting ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Tripeptide-5 and Vegan Collagen to hydrate, firm and sculpt in one silky swipe. Think of it as your skin's new PT — lifting, plumping and giving you that post-gym glow, minus the sweat — hurrah! Oh, and Symprove's cult gut health supplement just got a tropical upgrade — say hello to the brand-new Pineapple flavour. Packed with 10 billion live bacteria from four key strains in every 70ml shot, it's designed to support digestion, ease bloating and boost your gut game — all while tasting like summer in a bottle. More Trending It's vegan, gluten- and sugar-free, and cleverly formulated to reach your gut alive (unlike some other probiotics we won't name). After topping taste tests, Pineapple joins the fruity line-up alongside Mango & Passion Fruit and Strawberry & Raspberry — and yes, it's available now at Holland & Barrett. So get the kettle on, take five, maybe crack open that can of Coke Zero you've been saving, and get your debit card details ready… Add a little polish to your off-duty wardrobe with this waisted denim mini. Made from pure cotton for that effortless, lived-in feel, it features a flattering V-neck, voluminous sleeves and a tie belt to cinch you in. Easy, breezy, and endlessly wearable. Buy Now for £39.50 The Adidas Originals trainers get a bold cow print update exclusive to ASOS. Made with a gum sole, brown and white print, and a comfy pink insole, these retro-inspired trainers are a cool take on the Western trend. Comfy, low profile and fashion-forward, we're suggesting you add to basket, fast. Buy now for £90 Meet your new signature scent. The Nue Co. US Pheromone+ adapts to your body chemistry to enhance your natural pheromones, creating a fragrance that's uniquely yours. Expect soft notes of bergamot, patchouli, moss and musk — blended into something only you can wear. Buy Now for £125 Lightweight, foldable and made from recycled nylon canvas, this backpack is built for busy days and spontaneous getaways. It's roomy enough for a 16-inch laptop, with wide straps that won't dig in. The sporty shape is finished with a bold Russian leather flap and signature Longchamp medal — a sleek nod to life on the go. Buy Now for £140 Denim done right. The Ricky Rope Stitch Straight Jean nails that laid-back, lived-in look with its classic medium wash, signature rope stitching and standout horseshoe detail on the back pockets. A 34' inseam keeps things sleek and streamlined. Buy Now for £270 Hand-pressed glass beads and handblown glass give the Icon collection its charm — think one-of-a-kind designs that are as giftable as they are gorgeous. Whether it's for you or your best mate, these exclusive pieces are made to toast life's little moments in style. Buy Now for £14 Made from a modal blend fabric that's 21% more breathable than regular cotton jersey, this PJ top is silky-soft, lightweight, and designed to keep you cool all night long. It features four-way stretch for extra comfort, is pre-shrunk so it holds its shape wash after wash, and the fade-resistant fabric means it stays looking fresh. BUY NOW FOR £27.30 (WAS £39) – SAVE 30% Step into the stillness of night with Orb of Night — a scent that captures quiet romance and dawn's first light. Cherry-almond and caramel swirl over soft florals, warm sandalwood and a whisper of white musk. It's dreamy, magnetic, and made for moments that linger. Buy Now for £55 Add a pop of personality with the Lucia table lamp. Available in bold red and white or classic blue and white, this striped stunner is all about playful charm. The matching base and shade create a sleek, modern silhouette — perfect for perking up your bedside, desk or reading nook. Just add an E14 Candle LED bulb (not included) and let it glow. Buy Now for £35 Shield your strands with K18's HeatBounce Conditioning Heat Protectant. This lightweight mist defends against heat up to 232°C while softening, detangling and boosting shine. Powered by patented Resilicore™ tech, it's your go-to for smoother, healthier-looking hair — whether you're blow-drying or styling straighteners. Buy Now for £48 Stay organised on the move with the Wafer diary and pencil, crafted in signature Panama leather. Compact and portable, it's perfect for jotting down ideas or appointments on the go. The week-to-view layout and tear-off corners make keeping track of your schedule refreshingly simple. Buy Now for £90 Make a splash with the Ocean Cluster Charm Necklace. From starfish to sunbursts, build your own seaside story with up to five charms — including semi-precious stones. Plated in 18k gold, it's the ultimate personalised piece to gift (or keep). Buy Now for £59 Phlur's Mrs Smith Hair and Body Mist is fruity, floral and seriously refreshing. It opens with a juicy hit of Granny Smith apple, pear and watermelon — bright, playful and perfect for a quick pick-me-up. Apple blossom, violet and Pink Lady apple add a soft floral twist, while pink praline and musk nectar bring a warm, sweet finish that lingers on skin and hair. Bonus: it's vegan too. Buy Now from £25 Classic trench, meet modern drama. This Karen Millen number reworks a wardrobe icon with bold cape detailing and a sculptural silhouette. Crafted from breathable cotton and cinched at the waist, it's a statement layer that moves effortlessly from city streets to countryside escapes. Buy Now for £119.20 (was £149) Step into the cowboy trend with the Iria ankle boots in tan. With a sleek Western-inspired shape, they're made to go from casual brunches to nights out with ease. The versatile silhouette works with everything from jeans to floaty dresses — the perfect way to add a little edge to your everyday look. Buy Now for £100 Sweeten up your pout with Too Faced's Kissing Jelly Tint. This juicy lip tint delivers kiss-proof colour, lasting hydration and a glossy finish — all in one swipe. Wear it solo or layer under gloss for a custom combo that'll have everyone asking, 'What's on your lips?' Buy Now for £24 Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: Adidas' sell-out cow print Sambas are back — buy them now from ASOS (whilst stock lasts) MORE: Too hot at night? These cooling PJs fixed that and now they're 30% off MORE: 'I tried Charlotte Tilbury's new Unreal Blush Stick – and it may just be my new make-up must have'
Telegraph
10 hours ago
- Telegraph
Peter Phillips is engaged to NHS nurse
The Princess Royal's son Peter Phillips has announced his engagement to NHS paediatric nurse Harriet Sperling. The couple, who have been together for one year, told the King and Queen before two photos were published by Hello! magazine. They are pictured smiling in a field, with Ms Sperling opting for an all-white ensemble with her new diamond engagement ring while Mr Phillips sported a plaid shirt for the occasion. It comes after Princess Diana's niece Lady Eliza Spencer announced her engagement to long-term partner Channing Millerd on Thursday. The announcement of Mr Phillips's engagement comes 17 years after he caused controversy by allowing Hello! magazine to exclusively photograph his wedding to Autumn Kelly in 2008. The unprecedented access to Windsor's St George's Chapel, as well as to senior members of the Royal family including the late Queen and Prince Philip, was regarded as a serious error of judgment by Buckingham Palace at the time. In return for the photographic rights, Mr Phillips and Ms Kelly were reported to have received a £500,000 sum. The move resulted in Queen Elizabeth, who was not consulted in advance, to halt celebrity magazine photography deals involving senior members of the Royal family. The pictures marking Mr Phillips and Ms Sperling's engagement were taken privately and provided by their official spokesman. It is understood that no commercial arrangement was made with Hello!, or any other publication. Mr Phillips, who has no title, has always been regarded as a private member of the family because he carries out no official royal engagements and is not in receipt of public money. The eldest grandchild of the late Queen and the eldest child of Princess Anne, Mr Phillips made his public debut with Ms Sperling at the Badminton Horse Trials in May 2024. They were pictured at the event hand-in-hand while supporting his sister, Zara Tindall. The couple reportedly first met at a sporting event. A statement was issued for the pair by spokesman Gerard Franklin on Friday, reading: 'Mr Peter Phillips, the son of HRH The Princess Royal and Captain Mark Phillips and Ms Harriet Sperling, daughter of the late Mr Rupert Sanders and Mrs Mary Sanders of Gloucestershire, have today confirmed their official engagement. 'Both families were informed jointly of the announcement and were delighted with the wonderful news of their engagement. 'Their Majesties the King and Queen [and] the Prince and Princess of Wales have been informed of the announcement. No date has been officially set for the wedding.' In June, Ms Sperling made her official royal debut in the carriage procession at Royal Ascot and was seen meeting her husband-to-be's uncle, King Charles. Mr Phillips and Ms Kelly share two daughters, Savannah and Isla. They confirmed their separation in February 2020 and officially divorced in June the following year. Ms Sperling, meanwhile, has one daughter named Georgia. She has previously spoken about her experience being a single mother. Meanwhile Lady Eliza, the daughter of Diana's brother Earl Spencer and former model Victoria Aitken, revealed the news of her engagement on Instagram with pictures on holiday in the southern Greek island of Santorini. The couple, who have been together for nine years, were pictured smiling at a candlelit dinner set up for the occasion. Lady Eliza, who works as a model and brand ambassador, wore a long red dress while Mr Millerd, a tech executive, is pictured sporting all white while down on one knee. Lady Amelia Spencer, the model's twin sister, led the congratulatory messages to the pair, saying: 'The best news in the world! The most perfect couple and dream engagement. My heart is bursting for you both.' Their eldest sister Lady Kitty Spencer added: 'So happy for you and love you both very much.' The couple first met at a dinner party in South Africa hosted by Greg Mallett, Lady Eliza's brother-in-law, who was friends with Mr Millerd through school. Lady Eliza, 33, has previously told Hello! magazine that she shares 'such a strong, loving and supportive relationship' with Mr Millerd, describing him as her 'best friend'. 'We understand each other so well,' she added, saying: 'No matter what life brings, we're always there for one another. 'I absolutely believe he's The One – our bond is built on so much trust, laughter and shared values.' She captioned her engagement post with 'forever and ever', and included a photo featuring her new pear-shaped ring. The announcement comes after her twin sister's wedding to fitness expert Mr Mallett in Cape Town in 2023. The sisters spent most of their childhood in South Africa as part of Earl Spencer's efforts to keep them out of the spotlight following Princess Diana's death in 1997. Lady Kitty The couple married in a glamorous three-day event at the Villa Aldobrandini in Frascati, south-east of Rome. Lady Eliza has previously said that she and Mr Millerd 'love' the idea of a destination wedding, similar to her elder sister. 'We feel drawn to Italy,' she said, adding: 'Especially somewhere by the ocean – that feels so romantic to us.'
