For most, seeing The King and Queen in a relaxed environment is a unique experience.
The Royal Processions during the “seasonal event of the year”, Royal Ascot, is a chance to observe the royal family in their natural habitat - race horses, combined with top hats and fancy frocks.
“Three cheers for His Majesty the King!” someone shouted from the Pimm’s and Champagne-filled crowd when The King and Queen’s carriage entered the Parade Ring on Wednesday afternoon, followed by carriages carrying other members of the Royal Family and their guests.
I saw the King respectfully doffing his hat as he rode past the crowd, sat next to the Queen who has so far attended every day of Royal Ascot this year.
King Charles and Queen Camilla attending Royal AscotGettyDespite the patriotism and tradition embodied by the Procession, my observations inside the Parade Ring after the carriage ride highlighted the modernisation of the Royal Family's bonds in the third Carolean era.
As the King and Queen attempted to make their way inside on Tuesday afternoon, a blonde lady, who I spotted in the far distance, put her arm around the King and hugged him from behind.
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Zara and Mike Tindall attended Royal Ascot this year
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King Charles appeared startled by the intimacy of the moment, but having turned around, his stance softened and allowed the lady to kiss him on the cheek.
It was only when I saw the lady greet Queen Camilla that I realised she was the King’s niece, Zara Tindall - her hat had been covering most of her face.
This level of public intimacy rarely would have happened in the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, suggesting King Charles has adopted a more relaxed and informal approach when it comes to his family.
It also allowed me the observe the true love and affection he holds for the daughter of his only sister, and how much Zara loves her uncle in return.
The King attended three days of the 5-day event so far
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I have now covered the King on countless formal royal engagements, but Royal Ascot appears to be a time for His Majesty to have a bit of fun - something perhaps needed after such a difficult year with his health.
Invited to ride in the Royal Processions this week has been Prince Andrew’s two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
Prince Andrew still remains banned from most public appearances; his public approval ratings are at an all time low following the fallout from his friendship with the late convicted sex offender, Jefferey Epstein.
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have maintained a dignified silence, despite the media storm surrounding their father, instead choosing to focus on their private family and public work.
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have both also been at the royal races this week
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Princess Eugenie supports charities including Anti-Slavery International, Teenage Cancer Trust and the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital - the Princess was diagnosed with scoliosis aged 12.
Princess Beatrice, meanwhile, supports dyslexic children, driven by her own education experience, the Outward Bound Trust and (like her sister) the Teenage Cancer Trust.
The royal sisters could be seen mingling with their uncle the King alongside their mother Sarah, Duchess of York, who is back in royal favour now the older generation has passed away.
There has been much chatter about the possibility of the York sisters becoming working royals, but it is understood Beatrice and Eugenie will be limited to informally helping out when necessary.
The Royals all mingled at the event
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An example of this is when The Prince of Wales asked his cousins to help host a summer garden party last month, which was met with much praise from royal fans.
Fears of a very slimmed down and ageing monarchy were cast out when the younger generation rallied around their cousin and future king, in the absence of his ill wife, which helped strengthen the ranks.
The appearance of both Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice this week at Royal Ascot signals the King’s fondness for the two sisters, who are attracting increased media interest.
Noticeably absent from the royal lineup this week was The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. There is little sign relationships are thawing, even if reports are to be believed that His Majesty is keen to spend more time with his Californian grandchildren.
From observing the British Royal Family in Ascot this week, it appears a strong family unit remains steadfast, despite a difficult few months scarred by royal health battles.
