Princess Anne's husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, has been honoured with one of the highest ranks in the Royal Victorian Order by King Charles III, an official notice published in the Court Circular confirmed.
In a ceremony at Balmoral Castle on August 21, the King invested Sir Tim with the Insignia of a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO), a significant promotion within the order.
He is the first Royal Family member to be awarded the GCVO since Princess Kate received the honour from Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
The Royal Victorian Order is granted personally by the monarch to recognise distinguished service to the Sovereign or the royal family.
Princess Anne's husband Timothy Laurence receives Royal Family promotion from King Charles
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Sir Tim, 70, is the husband of the Princess Royal, and is widely respected both as a retired senior Royal Navy officer and as a trusted member of the royal household.
His new appointment as Knight Grand Cross is viewed as a personal gesture of esteem from the King, acknowledging his years of loyal service and quiet dedication.
Founded by Queen Victoria in 1896, the Royal Victorian Order is unique among honours in that it is bestowed entirely at the monarch’s discretion.
Knight Grand Cross is the highest grade within the order, typically reserved for those who have shown exceptional devotion over many years. Holders of the honour, such as Sir Tim, are entitled to use GCVO after their name.
The Court Circular confirmed that Timothy Laurence received the promotion
|COURT CIRCULAR
Sir Tim’s promotion comes during a period of reshaping under King Charles, who has emphasised a streamlined monarchy while strengthening key family roles.
His Royal Navy career, which included serving as equerry to Queen Elizabeth II, along with his consistent support of Princess Anne during official duties, has reinforced his reputation for discretion and reliability.
No public statement followed the private ceremony, in line with Sir Tim’s typically low profile.
Royal fans welcomed the news on social media. One wrote: "Congratulations to Sir Tim Laurence who was promoted to the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order.
Timothy Laurence pictured on June 25, 2025 at a soiree
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Princess Anne and Sir Timothy Laurence married in 1992 in Scotland | GETTY
"This was Sir Tim's SECOND promotion since he received the medal in 1989, 36 years ago. Last promotion was in 2011. Well deserved."
Another said: "I have been saying he needs some orders for some time now."
A third added: "I'm glad my dream finally came true, and he is highly deserving of the highest level of the Royal Victorian Order."