I KNOW many people aren’t keen on the royal family but, sorry, I’m still an admirer overall.

I certainly was when I saw the amazing Invictus Games and continued being impressed with Prince Harry. It only seems five minutes ago that he was being vilified in the media for being a playboy and turning up in a variety of embarrassing situations.

These days, he has turned into an accessible icon, especially where creating this now international event for wounded service heroes is concerned. He’s managed to initiate a positive and inspiring competitive milestone, restoring the confidence and pride of many injured, active veterans and at the same time prompting national pride in their achievements.

The most popular of the younger royal family members have made themselves the most populist, probably by instinct rather than design. Another pleasing royal is Princess Anne’s daughter, Zara Tindall who has just secured a place in the Rio Olympics with her horsemanship. She has always seemed a down-to-earth type. Fergie and daughters please take note.