Creators of Netflix s The Crown are set to infuriate royals as the upcoming season explores the relationship between Prince Philip and aristocrat Penny Knatchbull, who was 32 years his senior.
Penelope Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma, 67, wore a black hat and dress to Philip s funeral
Penny was a regular visitor at Wood Farm, Philip s cottage on the edge of the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk
She is married to Prince Philip s godson Norton Knatchbull, the son of Philip s cousin Patricia Knatchbull and grandson of Lord Mountbatten, while Norton is the godfather of Prince William and stays close to the family
Despite their 32 years age difference, the pair were firm friends for decades and shared a love for the exhilarating equestrian sport of carriage-driving
Penelope Knatchbull – known as Penny – sat quietly at the back of St George s Chapel.
In many ways, Penny, who turned 68 on Friday, was the second-most important woman in the Duke of Edinburgh s life – a constant confidante, loyal companion and keeper of secrets . Penny was one of the few friends that Philip continued to see regularly after 2017 and his withdrawal from Royal duties, said one aide. They were brought together by tragedy but were there for each other through thick and thin. He trusted her implicitly and she adored him. She never betrayed him. She was a keeper of not only his secrets but those of the entire family.