A centenarian D-Day veteran offered Princess Anne some cheeky advice during The Not Forgotten Association’s annual garden party at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.
Robert Piper, known as Bob, suggested the famously industrious royal ought to ease her pace as he met the King’s sister this afternoon.
The 100-year-old was among the first former servicemen to greet the Princess Royal at the event supporting ex-military personnel.
“I said to her, you know, she’s got to slow down,” Mr Piper said after his meeting.
The Second World War veteran praised Anne’s dedication, adding: “She’s done it so many years and she is a pro, she knows all the answers before you do.”
The Princess Royal, patron of the charity, made her entrance on the palace’s West Terrace steps alongside her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
More than 2,000 guests gathered in cheerful spirits despite cloudy conditions, with ice cream distributed on silver platters and service dogs mingling among attendees.
When veterans remarked that Anne had brought the sunshine, she responded: “Never anything to do with me, I promise.”
Robert Piper, known as Bob, suggested the famously industrious Princess Anne ought to ease her pace as he met her at Buckingham Palace today
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PA
As rain began to fall, the princess produced a green umbrella featuring a duck-shaped handle, perfectly coordinating with her green ensemble.
The Not Forgotten organisation offers recreational activities and assistance to former servicemen and women.
Mickey Turner, a former Royal Marine who completed a gruelling 3,000-mile Atlantic crossing by rowing boat, shared a brief exchange with the princess about his endeavour.
“What I said to her royal highness is it was about raising the profile of mental and physical health, which is something I am really passionate about,” Mr Turner revealed.
The Princess Royal, patron of The Not Forgotten association, made her entrance on the palace’s West Terrace steps alongside her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence
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PA
His ocean voyage lasted 59 days despite carrying provisions for only 50, with a storm nearly forcing the crew backwards at one stage.
Fellow guest Jean Farguson discussed the experience of reaching such an age with Anne.
“I’m very lucky, much healthier than all of my friends,” Ms Farguson remarked.
The gathering held particular significance this year, marking the 15th anniversary of the Iraq War’s conclusion on May 22, alongside six decades since the Borneo Confrontation ended in 1966.
Silhouette figures and poppies from the Standing With Giants exhibition adorned the palace grounds, providing a poignant backdrop to the festivities.
The 99-year-old Ms Farguson expressed her delight at attending, describing the occasion as thrilling.
“It is very exciting, seeing so many people and very interesting to come up to London today, don’t often do that nowadays,” she said.
Mr Turner has also paddled from Leeds to Liverpool, raising funds for the charity.