Getty ImagesKing Charles III has described how Elizabeth II wore her crown during her childhood bath as practice for her coronation.
“My mama used to come to bath time wearing a crown for practice,” she said in remarks that will be aired in a new documentary.
The monarch also spoke of being “a bit nervous” about wearing the heavy St Edward’s Crown at his coronation.
The remarks are featured in a documentary about a group of Canadian women who attended the late Queen’s coronation.
“I remember it all very well then, because I remember my sister and I had a bath in the evening,” King Charles told the ladies, recalling the 1953 event.
“What a heavy habit you must have. [the crown] is
“I never forgot, I can still remember it clearly.”
He added: “It’s very important to wear it for a certain period of time, because you get used to it.
“But the big one you’re crowned with, St. Edward’s crown, weighs five pounds.
“It’s a lot heavier and longer, so there’s always that feeling of being a little uncomfortable, if it sinks.
“You have to carry it, you have to look straight ahead.”
The 17th century gold St Edward’s Crown is worn by the King at his coronation and weighs 4.9lb (2.23kg).
But both King Charles III and Elizabeth II wore the Imperial Set Crown – weighing just over a kilogram – when they left Westminster Abbey.
PA MediaThe new documentary, Coronation Girls, tells the story of 50 women from across Canada who were sponsored by a Canadian businessman to attend the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
It followed 12 women, with an average age of 89, as they retraced their steps and returned to London in December last year, where they were surprised by King Charles during a visit to Buckingham Palace.
It is due to air on Boxing Day on WNED PBS in Canada.