Prince Charming

Maybe I'm a royalist, or perhaps I'm just a realist ... but can everyone just shut-up already about Prince Harry.

I've just watched an advert for a programme purporting to uncover the booze, the girls and the trouble surrounding Harry.

And ... ?!

I'm not going into details, (no, not even if you ask nicely) but

a. I've been known to have a few drinks;

b. I've gone out with one or two males of the species;

c. whilst I've never worn a Nazi uniform (which, in his position, was a bit of a stupid choice but he's said sorry, so enough) I have worn some interesting outfits in public (a lace basque, hot pants, fishnet tights and Doc Marten boots to go and see Rocky Horror Picture Show); and, more importantly ...

d. I've made (and still make?) some dubious decisions.

It's called growing up, having a life and learning from your mistakes.

I've had the fortunate advantage of no-one (except perhaps my bemused parents) really giving a damn about what I do, say or believe. Unfortunately, Prince Harry isn't in that position. He's not some wanna-be celeb, he's been in the flash bulb's glare since he was a few days old. For those who say, "well he should be used to it then" - can anyone reading this say, hand on heart, that you could cope and fully adjust to seeing photographers in the street outside your house night and day, following your every move in public, even watching your most private and personal moments as your bury a loved one?

It was interesting to see in contrast how much coverage Princes William and Harry got when they spent time as volunteers at a Red Cross warehouse after having made donations from their private funds to the Tsunami disaster relief fund.

A dodgy fancy dress outfit is obviously far more important.

For the Royal family to survive in the twenty first century and beyond, they need to adapt. The world has changed and so must they - be more dynamic, in-touch and hands-on. Given time and with the support of this nation, I believe Prince William and Prince Harry can be an asset to the United Kingdom.

I wish them ...

Happy Journeys.