Princess Anne’s Husband Just Joined Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla by Receiving a Special Title

Princess Anne’s husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, has been honoured with a prestigious title, putting him in the esteemed company of Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla. The official investiture ceremony took place on August 21, where Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence was made a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order by King Charles. This title is the highest honour within the Order and is also held by other royal family members including Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla, as well as other royal spouses.

The Royal Victorian Order, established in 1896 by Queen Victoria, recognises personal service to the royal family or the monarch. Princess Anne’s husband, Sir Tim, aged 70, is the first royal family member to receive this honour since Kate Middleton was bestowed with the title. Kate Middleton was named a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order in 2019, coinciding with her and Prince William’s eighth wedding anniversary. Other notable recipients of the honour include Queen Camilla and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, along with blood members of the royal family such as Prince Edward and Prince Andrew.

Princess Anne, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence’s wife, was honoured as a Dame Grand Cross in 1974 and later became the Grand Master in 2007. Despite Kate Middleton’s membership in the Royal Victorian Order, her husband, Prince William, is not a member. As the heir to the throne, Prince William will eventually become the Sovereign of the Order, a role currently held by King Charles. King Charles, in addition to the Royal Victorian Order, holds several other prestigious honours including the Royal Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter and Knight of the Order of the Thistle.

With the new title bestowed upon Sir Timothy Laurence comes a new insignia, which includes a sash badge and a breast star. It is anticipated that he may debut this new accessory at the upcoming state visit hosting U.S. President Donald Trump at Windsor Castle. At similar state events, Princess Kate has been seen wearing the insignia featuring a Maltese cross, symbolising her position within the Order. This new honour further cements Sir Timothy Laurence’s ties to the royal family, despite his retirement from the Royal Navy.

Although not a working member of the royal family, Sir Timothy Laurence has actively supported royal engagements for over three decades. His presence at events such as Trooping the Colour and Remembrance Day showcases his commitment to Princess Anne and the royal household. The royal family’s recent summer retreat at Balmoral Castle was the backdrop for King Charles to present Sir Timothy Laurence with his new title, highlighting the family’s commitment to upholding royal traditions and recognising contributions within their inner circle.

As King Charles attends to royal duties during the summer break, the investiture of Sir Timothy Laurence adds a touch of formal pomp to the family’s vacation. The quiet ceremony in Scotland contrasts with the public events the royals are known for, offering a more intimate setting for familial celebrations and acknowledgements. The royals’ dedication to honouring their own is evident in this latest recognition of Sir Timothy Laurence, further solidifying his place within the royal family circle.