Though generally seen as mild-mannered, the Prince of Wales is one of Britain's more outspoken royals, and - although members of the royal family do not tradi-
tionally voice opinions on political matters - is wont to speak out on issues close to his heart. His stance on subjects as diverse as architecture and genetically modified food have often earned him criticism. 

The first-born son of Princess Elizabeth and her husband Philip, Charles Philip Arthur George was born on November 14, 1948. He was educated in Britain and Australia, and went on to read archaeology, anthropology and history at Trinity College, Cambridge, before earning his wings as a pilot in the RAF. He took up his first service appointment in 1969, bidding farewell to active military life seven years later.

Upon his return to civilian life, Charles came under increasing pressure to find himself a bride. He had been linked with many society beauties, including the then Camilla Shand, whom he had met in the early Seventies, but he eventually plumped for Lady Diana Spencer, a shy 19-year-old kindergarten nurse. The wedding, in St Paul's Cathedral on July 29, 1981, was watched by 750 million viewers worldwide. Two sons, the "heir and a spare", followed - William, born on June 21, 1982, and Harry, born on September 15, 1984.

For several years, the state of the couple's marriage was the subject of fierce scrutiny, and in 1992 they finally announced their separation. It was an intensely difficult time for Charles, and the monarchy in general as the media began questioning the royal family's place in British society. In a 1994 television documentary, Charles admitted to Jonathan Dimbleby that he had committed adultery with Camilla Parker Bowles. 

The summer after the decree nisi came through in 1996, Diana was tragically killed in a road accident in Paris. Again, the monarchy came under fire, Charles especially. Since then the heir to the throne has successfully rehabilitated his image, and is now seen as a caring father, and worthy future monarch.

Charles has apartments in St James's Palace, but lives at Highgrove, a beautiful Cotswold estate which is farmed organically, in line with the Prince's beliefs. He also takes a keen interest in architecture, young people, the environment and health, believing people should have access to both complementary and orthodox medicine.

Almost 30 years after their first meeting, Charles and Camilla are together again, and it is plain to see that the Prince is happy and settled. While it looks unlikely that the Queen will abdicate in her son's favour, she is gradually handing over more of her royal duties, such as investiture ceremonies, to him.

The clearest indication of how Charles feels about his destined role came during a 1976 sojourn in Canada. "The most important thing will be to have concern for people and give some form of leadership," he said. "It's a fascinating job and I'm looking forward to the future." 

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