A ROYAL LOVE STORY FOR THE AGES

As King Charles and Queen Camilla today mark 20 years of marriage, how the happy couple overcame decades of public criticism and scrutiny to find their fairytale ending as one of the monarchy's strongest marriages

- By Rebecca Russell Deputy Royal Editor

IT STARTED as a fleeting romance before developing into one of the world's most talked-about affairs, with every detail of Camilla Parker Bowles's private life laid bare for the world to devour. Yet, today, King Charles, 76, and Queen Camilla, 77, are regarded as one of the strongest partnerships - and love stories - to emerge in the Royal Family's history.

A romance that many once believed would be the downfall of the monarchy has transformed into a binding relationship accepted and adored by royal courtiers, the public and even the late Queen Elizabeth II. And as Charles and Camilla today celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary - not in private but on a state tour to Italy - it is clearer than ever that Camilla is the King's soulmate and rock. Even more importantly, she is the monarch's best friend.

It has taken years of hard work, of course, and an irrepressible determination to change public perceptions. But as royal experts tell the Express, the couple who have been in one another's lives for more than five decades have built a solid union grounded in mutual respect and understanding.

"King Charles and Queen Camilla are a rare couple: deeply connected yet fiercely independent," notes royal author Robert Jobson. "They thrive as individuals as much as they do together, finding balance in their own interests and pursuits, but celebrate each other's successes. Even in times apart, they remain in sync, their relationship built on deep-rooted understanding rather than constant proximity.

It is a relationship that has defined the modern monarchy and becomes more important with every day that passes. In many ways, their bond mirrors that of Queen Elizabeth II and her "strength and stay" Prince Philip; the comfort and evident pride that exudes from them both whenever they are together is obvious.