The Prince and Princess of Wales have quietly given one of their most loyal staff members the ultimate royal seal of approval.
On Tuesday, Prince William, 43, awarded their driver, Lance Sergeant Scott Robin Bishop, with the Royal Victorian Medal in silver during an Investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle.
The orderly and driver received the honour in recognition of his "services to the Prince and Princess of Wales" and was in A-list company, with other recipients including Cynthia Erivo and Matt Lucas.
Lance has served as a driver to the royal couple for many years, ferrying them to and from official engagements and other private family duties. The accolade is intended to highlight his behind-the-scenes yet important role in the functioning of the British royals' day-to-day lives and operations.
Though not much is known about him and he keeps a low profile for privacy reasons, his role is crucial to the running of William and Kate's royal household.
Lance was one of two staff members mentioned in King Charles's New Year Honours List – the other being the family's nanny, Maria Teresa Turrión Borrallo.
Made public on 29 December, it made for a rare public mention of one of their most elusive members of staff.
What is the Royal Victorian Medal?
The silver Royal Victorian Medal is an honour awarded by the King for loyal service to the monarch or royal family. This differs from the honours given to sportspeople and actors, who often receive MBEs and knighthoods.
© Getty ImagesUnlike many other honours, it is purely down to the monarch to decide who receives it, rather than being granted on the advice of government ministers or overseen by independent committees.
Because it is purely given at the discretion of His Majesty, it reflects a direct and personal expression of gratitude, making it an extra special honour. It was established by Queen Victoria in 1896 and is awarded in gold, silver and bronze categories.
© Getty ImagesIn good company
In March, Prince William and Kate also honoured their long-time nanny, Maria Teresa Turrión Borrallo, with the Royal Victorian Medal in silver.
© Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty ImagesShe was given the award at a ceremony as a thank you for looking after their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis over the years.
Maria has worked for William and Kate for 12 years, joining them full-time after the birth of Prince George in 2014.
It's mainly a behind-the-scenes role, but Maria has accompanied them on royal tours, such as to New Zealand and Australia.
