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British Royals

A poem for Camilla on the eve of her milestone birthday

The Duchess of Cornwall has had a poem specially written for her to mark her 75th birthday.

Camilla is the subject of The Living Proof by Roger McGough. The verses were revealed by the poet just days before the Duchess’ milestone celebration.

The poem has been read for the first time at a special lunch at the National Liberal Club in central London hosted by The Oldie magazine. The publication’s annual lunch celebrates those aged 75 and over who are making a major contribution to society.

The Queen famously turned down the Oldie of the Year award in2021, saying ‘”you are only as old as you feel”. The Duke of Edinburgh accepted the same prize in 2011.

Roger McGough read his ode to Camilla at the lunch which saw stars including Dame Joanna Lumley and Gyles Brandreth celebrate the Duchess.

The Duchess of Cornwall celebrates her 75th birthday on July 17th 2022.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.