London - Camilla Parker Bowles was last night expected to join the Prince of Wales and his sons Princes William and Harry on a yachting holiday in the Greek islands. The three princes arrived in Athens earlier yesterday after celebrating the Queen Mother's 99th birthday in London.
St James's Palace declined to discuss details of the 10-day break, which comes just weeks before the second anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. "It is a private holiday and as such we do not discuss who is or is not there," said a palace spokeswoman.
It is thought to be the first time Mrs Parker Bowles has holidayed with William (17) and Harry (15). Her own children Tom and Laura are expected to join the royal party on board Greek shipping tycoon John Latsis's luxury yacht, which has been lent to them for an annual summer break for several years.
Prince William was thought to be behind the inclusion of Mrs Parker Bowles in the party, also believed to include six of the young prince's female friends. He is said to have urged his father to invite her after realising Charles would not see her for a month. The princes will follow the Mediterranean cruise with their traditional August break at Balmoral, where Mrs Parker Bowles would be unable to visit Charles, and William is said to have wanted his father to be happy.