Sarah Ferguson: this new generation of royal women can learn from my mistakes

SARAH FERGUSON, the Duchess of York, believes the next generation of female royals can survive scrutiny in the age of social media by learning from the mistakes she made.

From reality television shows to extra-marital affairs and money troubles, the Duchess’s royal faux pas have been laid bare over the years.

When asked on ITV’S Good Morning Britain whether she believed the Duchesses of Cambridge and Sussex had it “easier” in the spotlight because she and Diana, Princess of Wales, had been “guinea pigs”, she nodded in agreement.

But the Duchess said her daughters, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, as well as the Duchesses of Cambridge and Sus- sex, were better equipped to cope with media scrutiny, despite the added pressure of social media.

She said: “I often say to my girls, I’ve been there and made the mistakes so they know what not to do. It’s really cool, actually. All I can say to anyone, including my girls, is be who you are. They’re going to write things, they’re going to say things. They will. And 50 per cent of people like you, 50 per cent don’t. Do what you feel with the integrity of kindness.”

Among the tips she passed on was to remember the names of those who open doors for them and the people who cook their food.

The 59-year-old also said she was “honoured and grateful” to Prince Harry and Meghan for inviting her to their wedding in May.

Presenter Piers Morgan suggested it was her “comeback moment” after she separated from the Duke of York, Prince Andrew. She admitted it was a “nerveracking” experience but said Princess Diana would be “proud” of the women Prince William and Prince Harry have chosen to spend their lives with.

“She’d want to embrace them and tell them they’re doing well,” she added.

The breakdown in her marriage caused tension with the Queen, but the Duchess yesterday described the monarch as “one of the finest women I’ve ever met”. She added: “I just think that Her Majesty is an incredible lady.”