The Prince of Wales tonight joined Ms Camilla Parker Bowles at Windsor Castle this evening for the couple's first appearance together since announcing their engagement earlier today.
The couple are attending a business gala dinner at the castle, where they are
to be married in nine weeks' time.
Overhead, the Round Tower was illuminated on the instructions of the Queen to
celebrate the news and a small crowd of wellwishers braved rain and wind hoping to
catch a glimpse of the heir to the throne and his fiancee.
This morning's announcement from Prince Charles official residence, Clarence House, was, uncharacteristically, a well kept secret and surprised the British public.
The Prince and Ms Parker Bowles, both divorced, will marry on Friday, April 8th in a largely private civil ceremony at the palace.
A prayer service and dedication in St George's Chapel will follow at which the Archbishop of Canterbury will preside.
The prince, who is the heir to the throne, was previously married to Princess Diana, who died in a car crash in Paris in 1997.
The move will end years of speculation on their relationship which has spanned decades.
Ms Parker Bowles's current position meant her status was dogged with problems, including her seating at social functions away from the heir to the throne.
After marriage she will take the title Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall after the civil ceremony at Windsor Castle.
When the Prince of Wales becomes king Ms Parker Bowles will not be known as Queen but as Princess Consort.