Kate & William step up 'SHINING À LIGHT FOR ALL'

The royal couple gave us a glimpse of the power couple they truly are and what to expect in the future

- Judy Kean

Senior royals rolled out a lavish welcome for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte for their three-day state visit to the UK last week.

While the Princess of Wales had missed the carriage ride at Royal Ascot to put her health first, Catherine and her husband William, Prince of Wales, were the first to greet Emmanuel, 47, and Brigitte, 72, upon their arrival before they travelled to Windsor, where King Charles and Queen Camilla formally welcomed them.

The party of six then rode in carriages through the town of Windsor as part of the formalities, which included a guard of honour in the castle's quadrangle, a performance of the national anthems and lunch.

Later that day, The Firm came out in force at a glamorous state banquet, where the King, 76, said that France was one of the UK’s strongest allies as they face a multitude of complex threats.

“These challenges know no borders: no fortress can protect us against them this time,” Charles said.

“Instead, the answer lies in partnership, and we - France and Britain - must help lead the way.”

While a banquet such as this would usually be hosted at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle was chosen for the event due to the reservicing programme of the iconic residence, which began in 2017. Instead of the usual white tablecloth, a polished table ran the length of the room, decorated with seasonal flowers and herbs from the royal gardens. Staff said the table took six days to set up and perfect.

“This is the best of British here under one roof,” one proudly declared.

Following the event, flowers that couldn’t be reused were donated to Floral Angels, whose flowers are delivered to hospices, elderly care homes and shelters, of which Queen Camilla, who turns 78 this week, is a patron.