Who accompanied 'sad' Prince William at Ascot in Princess Kate's absence?

Princess Charlotte's godfather and his wife were spotted showing their support for 'sad and lonely' Prince William at Royal Ascot following Princess Kate's unexpected absence from the event.

Thomas van Straubenzee, a longtime friend of the Prince and Princess of Wales, was present with his wife, Lucy Langian-O Keeffe, as they accompanied Prince William during that day.

Van Straubenzee, who first met Prince William during their time together at Ludgrove School in Berkshire, has remained a trusted confidant of the royal ever since.

A successful business, Van Straubenzee currently serves as Partner and Global Head of Private Office at an international real consultancy firm. His close friendship with the royal family was further solidified when Prince William and Princess Kate chose him as godfather to their daughter, Princess Charlotte, now 10 years old.

The Prince and Princess of Wales also played a role in introducing Van Strau Benzee to his second wife, Lucy, who once taught Princess Charlotte at St Thomas' Battersea School.

Both Thomas and Lucy were seen standing alongside Prince William on the Ascot balcony, watching the races unfold and cheering the various events.

Photographs captured the trio enjoying the day, with Prince William sipping a drink while Lucy engaged in conversation with him and other guests.

Van Straubenzee's appearance at the event echoed his frequent public support of the royal family, including his past outings with Prince William and Prince George at football matches.

It comes after body language expert opened up about Prince William's appearance at Royal Ascot without his wife Princess Kate.

The Prince of Wales arrived alone to join King Charles and Queen Camilla for the royal procession, just under two hours after Kate Middleton withdrew from the event at the last minute.

Judi James told the Daily Express,'While his father, the King, chatted happily to their guest in the carriage, using some animated, good-humoured body language displays, William seemed to sit back quietly with a slight slumped posture, looking subdued and rather reflective without Kate at his side.'