ASHLEY HICKS

The photographer and interior designer recalls the excitement of annual childhood visits to watch his grandfather, Lord Mountbatten, ride along the Mall after Trooping of the Colour (page 56). Hicks’ new book,

Buckingham Palace: The Interiors, captures the splendour of all that lies beyond the closed doors of the Royal residence.

What do you love most about winter? ‘Walking on Oxfordshire fields in crisp winter sun.’

How do you decorate your Christmas tree? ‘We lost our “official” angel 15 years ago and I improvised with a broken doll to which I added a Minoan-inspired skirt and a gold halo. It is thought rather creepy by everyone but us.’