A Year of Change: Princess Anne opens up about her mother's death in a new documentary

 

A new documentary that chronicles the dramatic events of the past year for the British monarchy will air on BBC One on Christmas Day. The film, titled A Year of Change features unseen behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews with key officials, family and senior royals, including Princess Anne, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry.

The documentary captures the galloping pace of the last 12 months, from the Queen's historic Diamond Jubilee celebrations, to the birth of Prince George, to the death of the Queen in October, and the subsequent coronation of King Charles III.

In a moving segment, Princess Anne talks about her mother's death and how she felt when she saw the Imperial State Crown taken off the Queen's coffin for the last time at St George's Chapel at Windsor. 'I rather weirdly felt a sense of relief – that's it, finished,' she said. 'That responsibility being moved on.'

The Princess Royal, who remained exceptionally close to the late Queen throughout her life, also said: 'I think there was a moment when she felt that it would be more difficult if she died at Balmoral. Because that's where she was happiest. And I think she was probably right.'

The documentary also reveals how the new King and his sons have been coping with their new roles and responsibilities, and how they have been supporting each other through the grief and the challenges. Prince William, who is now the Prince of Wales and the heir apparent, said: 'It's been a very tough year for all of us. But we have to carry on the legacy of our grandmother, who was an amazing woman and an inspiration to millions.'

Prince Harry, who has been appointed as the Duke of Edinburgh and the captain general of the Royal Marines, said: 'She was more than just a grandmother to me. She was a mentor, a friend, a role model. She taught me so much about duty, service, and compassion. I miss her every day.'

The documentary also features footage of the Queen's last public engagements, such as her visit to the Chelsea Flower Show, her meeting with the US President, and her speech at the opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. It also shows the behind-the-scenes preparations for the coronation ceremony, which was attended by dignitaries and heads of state from around the world.

The documentary is narrated by Sir David Attenborough, who said: 'This is a story of a remarkable year in the history of the British monarchy. A year of change, of sorrow, of hope, and of continuity. A year that will be remembered for generations to come.'