Carole Middleton has ‘maternal’ bond with Prince William, says expert

The close relationship Prince William shares with Carole Middleton was on show as the pair attended Royal Ascot together today, according to a body language expert.

Judi James told The Sun that the Prince of Wales, 41, who looked like a ‘schoolboy’ in his top hat, appeared to have ‘triggered some maternal-looking body language responses from his mother-in-law’.

She added that the close proximity the pair were standing in signals that they are ‘a very relaxed and close family unit’. 

According to Judi, the way William and Carole, 69, interact show the ‘support and affection’ they share as a family. 

‘It’s so clear that the presence of Kate’s mother and father, who have had a very parental role in William’s life, creates what looks like a safe place for William to relax and have fun in the wake of all the worries over his wife’s illness,’ Judi added.

At one point, the prince showed off his chivalrous side, coming to the rescue of Carole after a minor mishap.

Carole was seen having her very own Cinderella moment as her foot slipped out of her heel which was left behind in the ground, but she luckily had a charming prince on hand.

The pair were seen laughing off the incident as they walked off together and joined other guests.

The Middletons’ outing comes after their daughter Kate, 42, who has been receiving chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer since February, made a spectacular return to public life during Trooping the Colour on Saturday. 

Carole and Michael Middleton’s last public appearance was at Kate’s annual Royal Carols: Together at Christmas at Westminster Abbey in London in December.

Three months later, Kate announced to the world her cancer diagnosis.

Carole, who sported a £350 light blue frock from Self-Portrait for today’s outing, has reportedly been supporting her daughter through her cancer treatment at her home in Windsor.

Her floral dress appeared reminiscent of Kate’s £1,275 blue lace creation by Elie Saab, which she first wore to Royal Ascot in 2019. It also featured a dainty bow and pleated detailing.

Proving to be a queen of coordination, Carole teamed her long-sleeved summer dress with a matching light blue fascinator, featuring a statement flower, and a pair of dark blue heels. 

With a stylish clutch bag in hand, she finished off her stunning look with a smattering of glamorous makeup and a pair of Emily Mortimer Electra Gold Sky and London Blue Topaz earrings.

William looked delighted that his wife’s parents were enjoying a day out at the races.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said of the Middletons stepping back into royal life: ‘They are the unsung heroes of the current period, eschewing the limelight, but undoubtedly making a very significant contribution at such a difficult time for the Wales family.’ 

He continued: ‘As we rejoice that Catherine made such a stunning success at her first official appearance in six months at Trooping the Colour, spare a thought for her parents who have undoubtedly helped her and her family so much during this stressful period.’