Queen Consort Camilla has eschewed centuries of tradition, replacing her ‘Ladies in Waiting’ with ‘Queen’s Companions’ instead.
The controversial call has been commended by many, marking the British monarchy’s move to a more modern institution.
Earlier this week, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Camilla would be giving up the ”antique tradition” of appointing ”Ladies in Waiting”, who are traditionally from aristocratic stock, replacing them instead with five of her closest friends.
The new companions include Fiona, the Marchioness of Lansdowne, Mrs Jane von Westenholz, the Hon. Lady Katharine Brooke, Mrs Peter Troughton (Sarah) and Lady Sarah Keswick.
The Queens Companions will assist Camilla when she is at official royal engagements as pictured her, where she delivered Paddington Teddy Bears to Barnardo’s in tributeto Queen Elizabeth II.
(IMAGE: Getty)
Given the Queen Consort and King’s close relationship with these women, the new title of ”Queen’s Companions” seems rather appropriate.
Of particular note, is the change in duties for these companions of which differs slightly from the former companions.
Essentially, the companions will serve as personal assistants, accompanying the newly minted Queen Consort on her engagements and foreign travels, doing everything from carrying flowers given to her from members in the public, to simply providing company.
These job responsibilities are a stark contrast to traditional ladies in waiting to a queen, reigning or consort, dating back hundreds of years to the Middle Ages when ladies helped the queen with such tasks as bathing and dressing.
Prior to her passing, it was the Queens ”dearest wish” that Camilla (formerly Duchess of Cornwall) be given the title of Queen Consort.
Under the late Queen Elizabeth II who was officially anointed in 1952, her ladies in waiting, known affectionately as ”Head Girls,” accompanied her on engagements, helped her with voluminous amounts of correspondence and sometimes even just sat with her to watch TV.
Whilst Elizabeth’s ”Head Girls” were on a full time roster, Camilla’s new companions will only be on call when needed, but will still be paid a nominal fee to cover their expenses.
A source told The Sunday Times: ”They are there to provide Her Majesty with support and company. At the end of a very busy day, it is nice to have a longstanding friend behind you.”
Imagine being paid to hang out with your friends? Sign us up!
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