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King Charles makes historic change to Balmoral

<p>King Charles has made a historic change to Balmoral for the first time ever, allowing the public for an exclusive look inside the royal residence. </p> <p>Later this year, the King will allow public tours of the Scottish castle, with small group tours available to be led by expert royal guides. </p> <p>Those being shown around the royal residence will get a unique glimpse in several rooms used by the King and Queen.</p> <p>A source close to the royal family said the initiative was in line with the King's wish to make royal residences more accessible to the public.</p> <p>It also reflects Charles' comments made after Queen Elizabeth's death, that the house had been earmarked as a place for the public to remember her.</p> <p>While Balmoral holds a lot of historical importance, the Scottish residence is not set up to handle a large influx of tourists. </p> <p>As a result, a month-long tour programme to begin in July will serve as a trial period to see how the castle and staff copes with increased footfall.</p> <p>Until now, the interior of the vast castle has largely remained out of bounds to members of the public, with tours limited to just the ballroom, the grounds and the gardens.</p> <p>The Balmoral estate announced the tours on Tuesday on its <a href="https://www.balmoralcastle.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>, stating, "For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides."</p> <p>"They will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle. You will learn about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal family."</p> <p>"You will see why Balmoral is such a special place - the much loved and celebrated Highland home of the Royal family."</p> <p>Only forty tickets each day will be sold for the "castle interior tour" for £100 ($193 AUD), or £150 ($289 AUD) if afternoon tea is included.</p> <p>The tours will take place from July 1st until August 4th, before the King and Queen arrive for their annual break. </p> <p>The season begins later this year due to the refurbishment of the restaurant but if successful, the opening hours will likely be extended in the future.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

International Travel

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King Charles delights cyclists with surprise encounter

<p>A group of cyclists have caught the heartwarming moment they bumped into King Charles on camera. </p> <p>The royal was hiking alone near Balmoral estate when he passed by the group of mountain bikers, and in typical British fashion, started talking to them about the weather, and sharing his most cherished memories on the estate. </p> <p>The video, posted on mountain biker Andrew McAvoy's YouTube channel <em>McTrail Rider, </em>racked up over 310,000 views in just two days. </p> <p>"I think Charlie boy is here because there's guards down there with big assault rifles and stuff like that - it looks pretty cool," McAvoy said just before he started his trail. </p> <p>"They probably wouldn't do that if no one important was here." </p> <p>Not long after he spotted a walked in the distance and added: "I think that's a minor royal," before the realisation set in that it was in fact the King himself.</p> <p>The King stopped and started chatting with the group of cyclists, with McAvoy sharing that he and his friends were staying at he Royal Lochnagar Distillery, and were heading for Gelder Shiel - also known as Ernie's Bothy or the Royal Bothy - a public shelter used by hillwalkers. </p> <p>"We'll be staying in the bothy tonight," McAvoy said. </p> <p>"So good. I'm so glad it works. I think because it's is really nice. We renovated recently, but I'm trying to get more trees," Charles replied. </p> <p>"Yeah, it's looking looking lush compared to what it was two years ago. Do you ever stay there?" McAvoy added. </p> <p>"No we used to with my father and sister. It's occasionally used nowadays by another generation," Charles said. </p> <p>When asked if he was still on his summer holiday the monarch replied: "Yes. It is wonderful up here. The midges are horrendous. It's typical."</p> <p>The King added that he liked walking because it was "good for the soul" despite a somewhat colder Scottish summer this year. </p> <p>They then bid their farewells, with the King showing his sense of humour saying: "Take care, don't fall off!" </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QABiQFWwXHg?si=oYHjQOwz997qnPRg" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>After their brief encounter, McAvoy and his friends couldn't help but comment on "what a nice man" Charles was.</p> <p>"Lovely man had time for us. Nice. I'm annoyed because I didn't want to care, but that was nice."</p> <p>The cyclist added: "He's a nice man. He's walking when everyone else is driving.</p> <p>"I'm just perplexed. It'd be one thing to like see the King with everyone - he was just wandering down the trail on his own."</p> <p>The Balmoral estate is generally open to the public from April to July each year, with access to the castle grounds being allowed on certain dates from September to December from this year. </p> <p><em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, Rubik, 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Images:  McTrail Rider YouTube</em></p>

International Travel

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Royal family's 175-year-old right to hunt comes to an end

<p>The royal family can no longer hunt at the five-century old Abergeldie Estate that is next door to Balmoral Castle.</p> <p>Abergeldie's new owner, Alastair Storey, has terminated the royal family's sporting rights lease, established by Prince Albert in 1852, which means they can no longer go hunting, deer stalking or fishing at the estate, ending the 175-year-old tradition.</p> <p>Storey reportedly has plans to "transform" buildings on the estate into private accommodation and hunting lodges, according to the Daily Telegraph.</p> <p>Planning documents filed with Aberdeenshire council confirmed this: "For the last 175 years the Royal family have leased the sporting rights at Abergeldie but this has now ceased, and will be actively run by the new Laird.</p> <p>"To facilitate the transformation and to effectively run the estate, new facilities will be required."</p> <p>The documents also stated that the buildings around the farmhouse "facilitate accommodation for the running of the estate and will include a social space for paying visitors to support the sporting activities on the estate".</p> <p>This is a huge change from the original agreements Prince Albert drew up with the Gordon family, who previously owned the estate.</p> <p>This also comes after the late Queen agreed to pay more for the shooting and hunting rights on the sporting estate 25 years ago, after she was asked to increase the nominal rent that was being paid by the royal family for access.</p> <p>The 11,532-acre estate is nestled between the late Queen Elizabeth's former estate and the King's residence, Birkhall.</p> <p>It was sold in 2021 after the death of the 21st Baron of Abergeldie, John Gordon - who was also a friend of the late monarch - to Storey, who bought the estate for £23 million.</p> <p>Although Storey purchased 34 properties dotted around the vast estate, he has not bought out Abergeldie Castle, which still belongs to the Gordon family.</p> <p>Storey, 70, is a Scottish businessman and chief executive of WSH, and was labelled the "most influential man in the UK hospitality industry" in 2012.</p> <p>He was made an Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth in 2017.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Body language expert weighs in on Prince George

<p>Prince George has stunned fans by stepping out ahead of his family during the annual Easter Sunday service at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.</p> <p>9-year-old George was accompanied by his parents - the Prince and Princess of Wales - and his siblings, seven-year-old Princess Charlotte and four-year-old Prince Louis. And while in 2022 the young royal stood between her parents as they made their way into the service, all eyes were on George in 2023 when he took the lead and strode a step ahead of them. </p> <p>And now, body language expert Judi James - who took note of George at both the 2021 and 2022 services as well - has spoken to<em> The Daily Mail </em>about what she believes the 9-year-old’s new “grown-up dynamic” means - both for himself, and the future of the British royal family. </p> <p>“At this Easter service there was a status step-up from George, who walked ahead to lead his family into the service,” she explained, “showing a newly grown-up dynamic from the five Wales’ when it comes to royal outings.</p> <p>“George used to be the one holding his father’s hand and looking rather timid, but here it was Charlotte walking in alongside William, while Kate held Louis’s hand beside them.”</p> <p>Judi went on to note that even this line-up “had its own upgrade”, outlining how Charlotte had appeared to check in on her younger brother, before sharing “a beam of pride at his impeccable behaviour.”</p> <p>“On the way out of the service it was Charlotte mirroring her mother, walking beside Kate and offering her own shy wave to the crowds in a gesture that showed who she takes her own lead from,” she continued. </p> <p>“Louis was a very different boy from the playful, fidgety young royal <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/adorable-prince-louis-upstages-entire-royal-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we saw at the Jubilee</a>. Walking beside Kate he looked serious and confident, offering a level stare at the crowds of fans and well-wishers, who seemed to have saved a special cheer for this mother and son duo.</p> <p>“Kate looked down at Louis with a grin of pride before smiling back up at the crowd, as though sharing her admiration for his grown-up behaviour. Louis even appeared to look down to straighten his tie as he entered the chapel.”</p> <p>Judi circled back to George while discussing the family leaving the service, noting that George was the first to exit, and that he demonstrated initiative when he set out “shaking hands without any prompting.”</p> <p>Meanwhile, many fans just couldn’t believe how quickly the young royal had grown before their very eyes, taking to social media in the wake of the service to voice their surprise. </p> <p>“How grown up does Prince George look today?” wrote one. </p> <p>“Can't believe how much Prince George has grown up,” said another. “He will be as tall as Prince William soon.”</p> <p>“It has been wonderful to see him grow in confidence as well as height,” someone agreed.</p> <p>Another noted that George bore a strong resemblance to Charles Spencer, and that the “Spencer genes are currently running strong.”</p> <p>While others couldn’t forget the rest, declaring “​​Princess Charlotte &amp; Prince Louis too! They are so adorable!”</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Little Louis' heartbreaking comment about "Grannie"

<p>As mourners gathered outside Windsor Castle to pay their tributes to Queen Elizabeth, Kate, William, Harry and Meghan reunited in a show of solidarity. </p> <p>As they spoke to heart-broken Britons about the Queen, Kate revealed the devastating comment her son Prince Louis made after hearing about the Queen's death. </p> <p>Kate spoke of the touching anecdote while meeting people on the Long Walk, with 28-year-old Banita Ranow hearing the new Princess of Wales tell the children next to her what her 4-year-old son said.</p> <p>She said Kate told the children, “Louis said ‘at least Grannie is with great grandpa now’.”</p> <p>Ms Ranow said the Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge was “welling up” as she spoke to the children.</p> <p>Ms Ranow, along with several others who attended the makeshift memorial, said it "so beautiful to see" the reunion of the Cambridges and the Sussexes in the wake of the Queen's death. </p> <p>She said, “I felt so emotional and I felt the Queen would have loved it. I just hope in the future they remain like that and that the brothers come together, and the families.”</p> <p>It was William and Kate’s first engagement under their new titles, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the first time they have appeared in public with Harry and Meghan since the National Service of Thanksgiving for the Queen’s Jubilee in June. </p> <p>A royal source said the Prince of Wales asked his brother and his wife to join them in viewing the tributes, as they all inspected tributes to Queen Elizabeth and met with well-wishers at the gates of Windsor Castle. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

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You could become King of this medieval castle

<p dir="ltr">You could become a lord or lady of your very own medieval castle, after the sprawling home in Rochester, Minnesota hit the market for just $2.5 million ($NZD 4.07 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">The sprawling property, complete with 26 rooms, a wine cellar, hot tub, and its very own pub, was built in the 1990s and has been <a href="http://www.signaturesir.com/property/detail.php?market=MI_REALCOMP&amp;mlsn=20221030870" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listed</a> on Zillow and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty.</p> <p dir="ltr">Enclosed by a wrought-iron fence, the 567-square-metre home also boasts two gated towers, a drawbridge, arched windows and soaring ceilings.</p> <p dir="ltr">Other highlights include timbered and mirrored walls, ceilings covered in artwork, chandeliers, and a red-carpeted grand staircase in the foyer, as well as a portcullis, five fireplaces and an elevator.</p> <p dir="ltr">Each of the seven bathrooms - which outnumber the five bedrooms - is decorated with statues, marble details, and gold railings.</p> <p dir="ltr">The listing describes the home as “the perfect private palace”, which took over a team of international artisans over six years to construct.</p> <p dir="ltr">The castle is 18 metres tall - rising above a standard four-storey building - and comes with a few surprises, including secret rooms and passageways, as well as a hidden staircase.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-72b1bd5d-7fff-c7e1-b784-7270e9687ea7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Signature Sotheby’s International Realty</em></p>

Real Estate

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“I am here to kill the Queen”: Crossbow assassin charged

<p>A man from the UK has been charged after storming the grounds of Windsor Castle armed with a crossbow. </p> <p>Jaswant Singh Chail allegedly told a police officer, "I'm here to kill the Queen", before being apprehended and handcuffed.</p> <p>The 20-year-old assailant is being charged under the Treason Act with intending to "injure the person of her majesty Queen Elizabeth II, or to alarm her majesty".</p> <p>He has also been charged with threats to kill and possession of an offensive weapon.</p> <p>The incident took place at the royal residence west of London on Christmas Day 2021, when the Queen was staying at the castle. </p> <p>Prosecutors allege the former supermarket worker from Southampton in southern England was wearing a hood and a mask and carrying a loaded crossbow with the safety catch off.</p> <p>His attempts to kill the Queen were immediately thwarted and he was taken into police custody. </p> <p>Prosecutor Kathryn Selby said the Supersonic X-Bow weapon allegedly carried by Chail had the potential to cause "serious or fatal injuries".</p> <p>Prosecution lawyers maintain Chail wanted revenge on the British establishment for its treatment of Indians and sent a video to about 20 people claiming he was going to assassinate the Queen.</p> <p>Prosecutors also allege that the man had tried to join the British Army and the Ministry of Defence Police in order to get close to the Royal family to carry out his revenge plan.</p> <p>Charges under the Treason Act of 1842 are rare, with the last person charged and convicted in 1981. </p> <p>The man in question, Marcus Sarjeant, was charged under the act after firing blank shots at the Queen as she rode on horseback in the Trooping the Colour parade in London.</p> <p>He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years in prison.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Supplied</em></p>

Legal

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Adorable family photo shows Princess Mary’s kids all grown up

<p dir="ltr">Princess Mary and Prince Frederik’s children appear all grown up in stunning photos shared to social media. </p> <p dir="ltr">The members of the Danish Royal Family attended the annual parade at Grasten Castle in southern Denmark on Sunday to greet members of the Grasten Ring Rider Association.</p> <p dir="ltr">The gorgeous photo shared to social media shows Australia’s beloved Princess Mary alongside her husband Prince Frederik, her daughter Princess Isabella, 15, and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 11.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their eldest son Prince Christian, 16, however did not appear at the event. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The Crown Prince's family today received the Gråsten Ringrider Association's procession at Graasten Castle, where your Royal Highnesses are currently staying,” an English translation of the caption reads.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgHevTLD4-w/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgHevTLD4-w/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by DET DANSKE KONGEHUS 🇩🇰 (@detdanskekongehus)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“The annual procession with Gråsten Ringriderforening begins at Gråsten Riding School and ends at Ringriderpladsen, where the traditional ring riding is completed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The procession consists of both riders and children on bicycles, and true to tradition, the procession today at noon made its way past Graasten Castle, where the royal family received and greeted the many participants”</p> <p dir="ltr">The young royals were seen waving and smiling as the procession of 300 horse riders and 100 bicycle riders made their way outside the castle. </p> <p dir="ltr">Princess Mary was also pictured greeting some of the riders. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Rene Schütze/Shutterstock</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Queen Elizabeth's coronation outfit goes on display

<p>In celebration of Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee, the dress, robe and jewels she wore for her coronation in 1953 are being displayed in Her Majesty's residence at Windsor Castle. </p> <p>The Sir Norman Hartnell coronation dress and Robe of Estate are now on display in the largest room in the castle, in the spectacular setting of St George's Hall.</p> <p>The eye-watering jewels include a platinum, gold and silver set diamond necklace, which features 25 graduated cushion-shape brilliant cut diamonds with a central drop-shape pendant, and are accompanied by matching earrings.</p> <p>They were originally created by Garrard for Queen Victoria in 1858 and will be available for viewing in the Lantern Lobby.</p> <p>The exhibition also features other key jewels, including a number of brooches from around the Commonwealth - with the Australian wattle and New Zealand silver fern brooches amongst those on display.</p> <p>Also featured in the display are the first official portraits taken of Her Majesty, as well as unseen photos that document her accession. </p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lgPowhnhSA8" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>The collection, titled <em>Platinum Jubilee: The Queen's Coronation</em>, opened to the public on Thursday and runs until September 26th. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Royal Collection Trust / Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Discover the wonder of classical music in Prague Castle

<p dir="ltr">Uncovering a city’s most underrated experiences is one of life’s great pleasures when travelling through places you have never seen. </p> <p dir="ltr">These breathtaking moments are often found lurking in the most unlikely of places, but are ones you are likely to never forget. </p> <p dir="ltr">One of these stunning experiences not to be missed on your next travels is the wonder of a classical music performance in the extraordinary Prague Castle. </p> <p dir="ltr">Performed by members of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, a one hour performance is open to the public each and every day. </p> <p dir="ltr">Complete with a trio of a flute, viola and a piano, these talented musicians play a selection of the world’s most celebrated pieces of classical music from composers such as Vivaldi, Mozart and Beethoven.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZKmd7y2ol28" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p dir="ltr">The intimate environment of the Lobkowicz Palace within the walls of Prague Castle boasts the ultimate conditions to enjoy the performance, as audience members can also enjoy the stunning art surrounding them. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Lobkowicz Collections comprise one of the oldest and largest private art collections in Central Europe, bringing an artistic experience for all the senses.  </p> <p dir="ltr">While in the grounds of the castle, explore the castle complex that dates back to the 9th century and is rich with extraordinary history, breath-taking architecture and a stunning view point that gives amazing views of all of Prague.</p> <p dir="ltr">With <a href="https://www.prague-castle-concert.cz/en/">tickets</a> available for an extremely reasonable price, the midday classical concerts at Prague Castle are a must see for any music lover. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Supplied</em></p>

Music

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Security concern after intruder spends night just metres from Queen

<p dir="ltr">An intruder who was given access to the Army Barracks by soldiers who protect Queen Elizabeth has sparked a security concern.</p> <p dir="ltr">The man, who claimed to be a priest, told the soldiers that he was a friend of the padre to the Coldstream Guards at the base. </p> <p dir="ltr">Soldiers allowed the man into the Victoria Barracks on Sheet Street - the week the Queen was away at Sandringham for Easter - despite not providing any form of ID.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was given a bed and spoke to the soldiers about “how he had worked as an ejector-seat test pilot and had donated some of his organs”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The next morning, after the intruder was given breakfast, the soldiers raised the alarm.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police attended the barracks just hours before the Queen was due to return to Windsor Castle and removed him from site. </p> <p dir="ltr">The fake priest however was not arrested and is believed to have been suffering from mental issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Officers attended and removed the intruder from the barracks. No further action was required," a Thames Valley Police spokesman told <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/18438925/queen-shock-security-blunder-windsor-castle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sun</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ex-Met Police commander John O’Connor said the palace should already be on “full alert” as they counteract threats.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The timing is very serious. They should already be on full alert for the Jubilee.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are still under a continuing threat from terrorists, It’s this lackadaisical attitude which leads to disasters.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Legal

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Stunning images released of Princess Isabella’s confirmation

<p dir="ltr">Heartwarming family photos of the Danish Royal Family have been released following Princess Isabella’s confirmation.</p> <p dir="ltr">Princess Isabella, the daughter of Crown Princess Mary and Prince Frederik, was confirmed at the Fredensborg Palace Church on April 30.</p> <p dir="ltr">The confirmation ceremony, which was held just a few weeks after Princess Isabella’s <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/beauty-style/new-images-of-crown-princess-mary-s-daughter-released-on-her-birthday" target="_blank" rel="noopener">15th birthday</a>, was attended by Queen Margrethe II and her three siblings, Prince Christian, 16, and 11-year-old twins Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The garden hall at Fredensborg Castle forms the setting for the official confirmation photos of Her Royal Highness Princess Isabella and the royal family as well as the Princess' sponsors,” a translated message from the Danish Royal Family reads. </p> <p dir="ltr">“In the photos taken shortly after the confirmation in Fredensborg Castle Church, the confirmand is seen together with Her Majesty the Queen, the Crown Prince Couple and their Royal Highnesses Prince Christian, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The princess was also photographed with her godparents, Her Majesty Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Her Royal Highness Princess Alexia of Greece, Dr. Nadine Johnston, chief physician, dr.med. Christian von Buchwald, director, major Peter Heering and chamberlain Marie Louise Skeel.”</p> <p dir="ltr">In another post, the Danish Royal Family revealed that Fredensborg Castle has been used for the family’s confirmation over the past 100 years. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The church has formed the framework for royal confirmations. Thus it was also in this church that both Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince were confirmed in 1955 and 1981 respectively.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Franne Voigt</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Queen’s great grandchildren playing outside Windsor Castle

<p dir="ltr">An adorable video showing the Queen’s great grandchildren playing outside Windsor Castle has been shared online.</p> <p dir="ltr">The footage shared to Twitter shows the children in a horse drawn carriage outside the castle with photographers nearby.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is unclear which of the Queen’s 12 great grandchildren are there; it is evident that Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Princess Eugenie’s son August are there.</p> <p dir="ltr">Nearby, Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank can be seen looking on and helping the kids get into place.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">So excited!!! The Queen's great grandchildren at Windsor Castle!!! For sure we will have a new portrait for Platinum Jubilee 😍🫶🏻 This will be awesome 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/oGDnXkVdH6">pic.twitter.com/oGDnXkVdH6</a></p> <p>— 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 (@NewsCambridges) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsCambridges/status/1519640706150965248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">It is rumoured that the photographers are helping piece together the new portrait for Platinum Jubilee in June or Trooping the Colour. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II is being celebrated to mark the 70th anniversary of her accession February 6, 1952.</p> <p dir="ltr">The four day UK bank holiday weekend runs from June 2 to June 5 and will include celebrations, public events and community activities.</p> <p dir="ltr">A reflection of the Queen’s 70 years’ reign will be shared as well.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Honouring Queen Elizabeth II on her 96th birthday

<p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her 96th birthday on April 21.</p> <p dir="ltr">Britain's longest-lived monarch has already travelled by helicopter to her Norfolk estate, where she will be joined by family and friends for celebrations.</p> <p dir="ltr">She is expected to stay at a cottage at Sandringham Estate, which was much loved by her late husband Prince Philip.</p> <p dir="ltr">A beautiful photograph capturing the Queen’s love for horses was released by Buckingham Palace in honour of the occasion.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Queen is seen wearing an olive gown standing in between her two fell ponies Bybeck Katie and Bybeck Nightingale, at Windsor Castle, who will appear at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.</p> <p dir="ltr">Every year, the Queen marks her birthday twice, once in April and again in June.</p> <p dir="ltr">The celebration in April is a small intimate one with family and is marked publicly via gun salutes in central London at midday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Queen Elizabeth’s second birthday is celebrated on the second Monday of June in Australia.</p> <p dir="ltr">The delaying of official birthdays is dated back to 1748, when George the II could not have the big celebration he wanted in November.</p> <p dir="ltr">He began the tradition in 1748 as his birthday, in November, meant he could not have the big public celebration he wanted.</p> <p dir="ltr">But it was the Queen’s great-great-grandfather Edward VII who standardised tradition by having an “official” birthday in summer.</p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the gallery below for a very special look back at some of the special images that sum up her life.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram / Getty Images</em></p>

News

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Man selling US$60 million castle so he can build another one

<p>The fairytale castle that looks straight out of the opening credits to any Disney movie - a custom-built castle in northeast Connecticut, US.</p> <p>After originally being put on the market for US$35 million in November 2021, this incredible nine-bedroom masterpiece has been freshly re-listed .... for almost DOUBLE, at US$60 million.</p> <p>The reason for the price increase? Its owner, Chris Mark, needs funding – a LOT more funding – to move on and begin construction on yet another fairytale castle.</p> <p>“We had a couple of serious inquiries,” agent John Pizzi of Randall Realtors told The Post of the fairytale property’s luck since November. “The owner is relocating out of state and he thought he would build another castle, and in talking to architects and engineers, he realised he would need in the ballpark of US$60 million to construct another mediaeval-energy mansion."</p> <p>Mark completed the current castle in 2010, but is ready to move on from it now that his daughters have graduated high school. </p> <p>Mark — who is the descendant of a Chicago steel tycoon – was very hands-on and passionate in having the castle built. He went as far as buying a boat manufacturer to more easily acquire materials needed, and imported the labor of Polish, Czech and Russian craftsmen to construct it.</p> <p>“You would think it was something from the 1400s or 1500s, but it’s less than 20 years old,” Pizzi noted of the high quality result of Mark’s energies.</p> <p>“Fit for the contemporary king, this architectural wonder is accessible via two different stone bridges,” reads the site dedicated to the 10-bathroom home. “Upon crossing between towering turrets, the natural stone pathways guide visitors over a deep moat that surrounds the entire estate.”</p> <p>There are modern conveniences including central air, an elevator, radiant flooring, a pool, a dock and a garage, as well as gothic luxuries, such as 12 fireplaces, 126-foot-high turrets, an entry hall, a 30-acre pond, stained glass and 25 types of hardwood flooring. There’s also a raised stage auditorium, a guest apartment, a recording studio and 400 acres including a moat.</p> <p><em>Images: Tyra Pacheco</em></p> <p><em> </em></p>

Real Estate

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“Fairytale” chateau re-listed with million-dollar discount

<p dir="ltr">An estate dubbed Chateau Jardin Perfume has taken a price cut after being on the market since mid 2021.</p><p dir="ltr">The chateau-inspired mansion was first listed for $8 and $8.8 million, and has been <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/sassafras-vic-3787-2017057790" target="_blank" rel="noopener">relisted</a> with a price guide between $5.7 and $6.2 million.</p><p dir="ltr">Located in the town of Sassafras in Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges, the home has been renovated and filled with French chandeliers, Italian porcelain floors, custom statues, and an imported staircase.</p><p dir="ltr">The three-bedroom, three-bathroom house sits on 2600 square metres and has been described as a “fairytale”, “off-the-charts” and a “palace in the sky”.</p><p dir="ltr">Its current owners first bought the home in 2016 for $2.66 million, when it was marketed as “Beauxbatons Manor”, referencing the French wizardry school in the Harry Potter books.</p><p dir="ltr">After completing a swift, multimillion-dollar renovation, Peninsula Sotheby’s International says it has become the kind of home you’d find in the Hollywood Hills.</p><p dir="ltr">“When you look at the colouring of the decor, the splashes of pink, the outdoor furniture, which is all from LA, the Rolls-Royce in the garage, it is very Hollywood Hills, even with the aspect over Melbourne city which is typical of what you would see in LA,” agent Rob Curtain said.</p><p dir="ltr">Along with the glamourous finishings, the home features vivid colours and patterns like fuschia and leopard print throughout.</p><p dir="ltr">Originally, the interior and exterior furniture and furnishings - except the artwork - were included with the home.</p><p dir="ltr">With the relisting of the home, Mr Curtain told <em><a href="https://www.nine.com.au/property/news/fairytale-mansion-dandenong-ranges-for-sale/aef16231-7655-4cee-85a5-351dbc618f47" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Domain</a> </em>that the price would be readjusted accordingly if the prospective buyer didn’t wish to buy the fixtures and fittings - which may explain the new, reduced price.</p><p dir="ltr">Other luxe features include two separate master wings, a six-car garage, a “gold-class” theatre room with space for eight people, and an opulent cigar room.</p><p dir="ltr">The extensive renovations also saw the grounds undergo a major transformation, with the 2400-square-metre grounds undergoing extensive landscaping to create gardens filled with roses, camelias, gardenias, tulips, freesias, hyacinth, jasmine and Mexican orange blossom.</p><p dir="ltr">The fairytale atmosphere is made complete with the stunning pool featuring a mosaic tile rose on the bottom, as we</p><p dir="ltr">ll as with a series of stone paths and twinkling lights.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Domain</em></p>

Real Estate

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A castle from ‘The Godfather’ is up for grabs

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/sicilian-castle-art-collection-sale-1234615683/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">200-year-old castle</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> near Sicily’s Ionian coast that remains intact has gone up for sale - giving film buffs a chance to own a piece of cinematic history for just €6 million ($AUD 9.49 or $NZD 10 million).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The castle - complete with 22 rooms, its own park and commissioned artworks - isn’t the only structure for sale either, with a gothic-inspired chapel filled with art and frescoes also included in the estate, according to representatives for </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/detail/180-l-86206-ss485l/piazza-agostino-pennisi-acireale-ct" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sotheby’s International Realty</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 333.33333333333337px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846907/imagereader-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/bcd8f0c0ae8f4fcfad2ac1b9322fd5e5" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 200-year-old castle has been listed for sale for an eye-watering price. Image: Sotheby’s International Realty</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the 1960s and ‘70s, the Sicilian castle was used as the set for several films, including 1969’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">That Splendid November </span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">and Francis Coppola’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Godfather: Part III</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The final instalment in Coppola’s trilogy, released on Christmas Day in 1990, follows Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone as he attempts to fix his failing marriage, connect with his estranged children, and find a successor to pass his criminal enterprise onto so he can leave the life of organised crime for good.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though it was poorly received by audiences, the film was nominated for seven Oscars and also serves as the source of one of </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Godfather</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">’s iconic lines: “just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in”.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 333.33333333333337px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846908/imagereader.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/181bcb30d30748c28d9f16aaad21e54e" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Movie historians are sure to recognise the property from Godfather: Part III, which featured shots of the interior and exterior. Image: Sotheby’s International Realty</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The sale of the nearly 4000-square-metre castle comes shortly after </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/iconic-horror-house-hits-market-with-help-of-freddy-krueger" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">the home from </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">A Nightmare On Elm Street</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> hit the market</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which sold on Halloween 2021.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, homes with a history on the silver screen are more likely to be listed for temporary stays through Airbnb and other platforms for special, often exclusive, events, with recent examples including </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/how-to-stay-in-carrie-bradshaw-s-apartment-from-sex-and-the-city" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a recreation of Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sex and the City</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and the </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/property/real-estate/you-can-now-spend-a-night-in-the-original-home-alone-house" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chicago home</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that was filled with Kevin’s traps in 1992’s </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Home Alone</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images / Sotheby’s International Realty</span></em></p>

Movies

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One-year-old receives a heart-warming letter from Windsor Castle

<p><em>Image: The Sun</em></p> <p>A young girl has received a letter from Windsor Castle after dressing up as The Queen for Halloween.</p> <p>One-year-old Jalayne Sutherland caught royal attention after donning an adorable double-breasted overcoat with a matching hat, a white wig and pearls around her neck.</p> <p>She was photographed by her mum, Katelyn Sutherland, standing alongside her family corgis. Katelyn, from Ohio, America, sent the photograph to The Queen on a whim - and said she did not expect to receive a reply.</p> <p>She said, "The biggest inspiration for the outfit was the fact that our dogs are our daughter's best friends."</p> <p>“We wanted to do something where they could all be included together. We are most definitely fans of the Royal family and truly admire how the Queen walks by faith."</p> <p>Katelyn said her daughter's costume was met with lots of praise as she took her trick-or-treating on Halloween this year.</p> <p>She added, “While walking around on Halloween we received many, many compliments but my favourite reactions were when people bowed to her or did the royal wave and said, ‘Your Majesty!’”</p> <p>The letter, from the Queen's lady in waiting for the Hon Marry Morrison, said, “The Queen wishes me to write and thank you for your letter, and for the photograph you thoughtfully enclosed."</p> <p>“Her Majesty thought it kind of you to write to her, and The Queen was pleased to see the photograph of your daughter, Jalayne, in her splendid outfit."</p> <p>“Her Majesty hopes you all have a very Merry Christmas, and I am enclosing a little information about the Royal Pets, which Jalayne might like to have.”</p>

Family & Pets