The former butler claimed that even in those early days Kate’s presence was already felt within the royal residence, but the couple split shortly after.

They did not stay apart for long, however, rekindling their romance in the summer of 2007 -with Harrold eventually able to assist in a sweet Valentine’s Day dinner.

He said: “So I kept hinting at this, and he had no interest. Then suddenly one day, it was valentines, I don’t know if that prompted him. They had just got back together. He suddenly said, let’s do a dinner.”

Harrold recalled how he ended up in charge of the special meal: “I remember having all these notes of what to do. It was just the two of them and it was really nice. I felt it was quite special being the one who got to do this.”

Even though it was an intimate evening for William and Kate, Harrold remembered how warm and approachable they were.

“It was great because even thought it was very much a romantic dinner with them, they interacted with me. They chatted with me. It was quite fun. There was a lovely chef who was no longer with us. She knew the boys.”

He continued: “She knew Diana, was with us a long time. And she was on duty at the time.”

Afterwards, the couple made sure to show their gratitude.

“They thanked the chefs and staff straight after the meal,” Harrold said. “The nice thing about William and Kate, and Harry.”

“They always used to thank everybody. they would always come and find you. And thank you for what you have done which I always thought was quite nice,” the former aid revealed.