Harry not first to look to U.S.
Dear editor: Neil Godbout is incorrect (Herald, A8, Nov. 30) when he says that the last time a British prince wanted to marry an American woman was 1936.
He appears to have overlooked the passionate romance between Prince Andrew and the actress Koo Stark in the early 1980s. It was common gossip in the media at the time that Prince Andrew wanted to marry Koo, but this marriage was forbidden by the Queen. I don’t know if he formally asked his mother for permission or if she forestalled him by letting him know in advance that permission would not be granted.
There were two objections to him marrying Koo. One that she was American (although she had lived in the UK since she was of primary school age). The other that, several years previously, as a young out-of-work actress struggling to pay the bills, she had done what many young actresses in that situation did and reluctantly accepted a starring role in a porn movie.
It is well known that Andrew was devastated by his mother’s refusal which eventually led to him marrying the “more suitable” Sarah Ferguson.
With the benefit of hindsight, Koo would have been a much better choice. She has displayed exemplary discretion. Shortly after the break up, the tabloid press and scandal magazines were pressing her to dish the dirt on her romance with Andres.
It was reported that Hello magazine offered her one million pounds for an exclusive. Despite the fact that she was out of work and struggling to pay the rent, she told them to go jump in the lake.
Andrew’s strong feelings for Koo have persisted over the years. After he and Sarah separated, he invited Koo to act as hostess at several formal functions that he was required to host in his capacity as a spokesman for British business. Those fortunate enough to attend these events said that she was a charming and eloquent hostess and that Andrew’s feelings for her were very apparent.
She has always remained totally discreet when asked about Andrew or the Royal family.
She is no longer an actress but has developed a talent for photography and she is now ranked as one of the UK’s top photographers. Brian Butler Penticton and developments? Didn’t they have to sign off before they went ahead?
If mayor and council are so wishy-washy they can’t think for themselves, surely they could heed the electorate, who can think and are very good at making their wishes known. Joy Lang Penticton