Princess Beatrice has appeared to step in for her mother, Sarah Ferguson, at the funeral of the Duchess of York’s former partner Paddy McNally.
The 38-year-old royal was among mourners at St James’ Church in Sevenhampton, near Swindon, on Friday, where a service of remembrance for the businessman began at 10.30am.
Beatrice’s presence is understood to have been particularly significant given her mother’s longstanding friendship with McNally.
Sarah and the racing tycoon dated in the 1980s, before she went on to marry Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in 1986, but the pair remained close after their relationship ended.
McNally died aged 88 in July, prompting tributes to a man who had played an important role in Sarah’s life for decades.
A lasting bond with Sarah Ferguson
McNally was a wealthy businessman with deep links to the world of motorsport.
He began his career as a racing driver before moving into the commercial side of Formula One, where he worked alongside Bernie Ecclestone.
His relationship with Sarah began in unusual circumstances. Before they became a couple, Sarah reportedly worked as a nanny to McNally’s two sons, Sean and Rollo, following the death of his wife, Anne Downing.
Reports have suggested that he continued to look out for the Duchess long after their romance had ended, maintaining a supportive presence during some of the more difficult periods of her life.
His connection to Sarah’s recent life
McNally also had substantial property interests in the Swiss resort of Verbier, a destination with which Sarah has been closely associated in recent years.
The Duchess was reportedly spending time in the Alpine resort following her departure from Royal Lodge, where she had lived with her former husband for many years.
Beatrice’s attendance at Friday’s service comes as Sarah has largely remained away from the public eye in recent months.
2026-08-14 17:41:00
