It was seen as a personal gesture

King Charles is honouring Princess Anne’s husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, with a huge new promotion.

Sir Timothy Laurence, 70, is the husband of Princess Anne. But he is also extremely well respected as a retired senior Royal Navy officer and as a trusted member of the royal household.

Now, King Charles has acknowledged Timothy’s years of loyal service by giving him a whole new position – and it’s a huge one.

Sir Timothy has recveived a special honour from King Charles (Credit: Cover Images)

King Charles honouring Sir Timothy Laurence

The Princess Royal’s husband has received one of the highest ranks in the Royal Victorian Order. The news was confirmed by an official notice published in the Court Circular.

Last week on August 21, King Charles invested Sir Timothy with the Insignia of a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. It took place at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

This promotion makes him the first member of the royal family to be awarded a GCVO since Princess Kate received the honour from Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.

It’s believed Sir Timothy Laurence’s new position as Knight Grand Cross is a personal gesture from the king. And is Charles’ way of honouring him for his years of dedication.
King Charles has honoured Sir Timothy (Credit: Mischa Schoemaker/Dutch Press Photo/Cover Images)

Fans thrilled at the news

While no official statement has been released, royal fans have reacted to the news on X.

One praised: “From now on, Sir Tim’s full title is Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, GCVO CB CSM ADC FSA. I’m glad my dream finally came true. And he is highly deserving of the highest level of the Royal Victorian Order.”

Another added: “Congratulations, Sir Timothy. About time, I would say.”

“Very happy for Sir Timothy Laurence, GCVO. Well deserved,” a third praised.
Timothy and Anne married in 1992 (Credit: Dutch Press Photo/Cover Images)

What is the Knight Grand Cross?

Queen Victoria founded The Royal Victorian Order in 1896. It is given out entirely at the monarch’s discretion. Perhaps why it wasn’t public knowledge that Sir Timothy was receiving it beforehand.

The Knight Grand Cross is the highest grade within the order. Over the years, those with exceptional devotion through a long period of time received it.

Once the honour is given, holders will be allowed to use GCVO after their name.

King Charles giving Sir Timothy Laurence the promotion comes during a time of reshaping for the royals. Previously King Charles has emphasised a streamlines monarchy – strengthening key family roles.

Sir Timothy’s reliability has been proven in numerous ways over the years. His lengthy Royal Navy career included serving as equerry to Queen Elizabeth. And he has shown consistent support to his wife during her duties.

Sir Timothy and Princess Anne married in 1992.