EX-RUGBY STAR’S GRANDMOTHER THOUGHT HIS MARRIAGE WITH ZARA PHILLIPS WOULD BE ‘SHUNNED’

MIKE Tindall’s grandmother was “dead against” him marrying Zara Phillips.

The 41-year-old rugby star met the 39-year-old equestrian – who is the daughter of Princess Anne and her ex-husband, Captain Mark Phillips – in 2003 and though they went on to wed in 2011, the sportsman’s elderly relative was concerned their marriage would be “shunned” because of his humble background.

Tindall’s father, Philip, said: “He started playing for England in 2000 and it wasn’t too long before he met and moved in with Zara.

“Linda’s mum was dead against it. In her day, royalty married royalty and she thought the wedding would be shunned.”

Philip and his wife Linda found Zara’s family to be very welcoming and they spent a lot of time together during Tindall’s playing days.

He added: “But right from the start the whole family was just lovely.”

He told the Sunday Times magazine: “Linda’s mum died before she could meet Zara, but I know she’d have loved her as much as we do because she and Mike are perfect for each other. What one starts, the other finishes; they are a fantastic team.” | Bang Showbiz