But there was still a palpable sense of excitement, with about 20,000 well-wishers gathering outside the venue. “Their wedding was a huge turning point in many ways,” says Robert Hardman, author of Charles III: The Inside Story. “These are the moments that punctuate our royal history. There was a great buzz about it.”

Following the formalities, a simple two-hour reception was held in the State Apartments, where guests enjoyed an afternoon tea of smoked salmon, venison sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and strawberry tartlets. The wedding cake was a large square creation that weighed a whopping 17st.

On the day, Charles’ wedding speech was packed with emotion. He said: “My darling Camilla, I can’t believe that you married me. She has stood with me through thick and thin and her optimism and humour have seen me through.”

The couple honeymooned at Balmoral, journeying to RAF Northolt in a Bentley that William and Harry decorated with balloons and the words “Prince” and “Duchess” sprayed on he windscreen, with “Just Married” on the rear.

Since then, Camilla has continued to win public approval, quietly getting on with her royal duties and providing endless affection and companionship for Charles.