I never met Princess Diana – but this is why I loved her

Last week, I took my two youngest sons to the Diana Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park. It is quite unlike other memorials or fountains. It forms a circular river which changes every couple of metres: shallow to deep, rushing to calm, springs to waves. Dozens of children were playing in the water; bare feet clambering, little limbs lying down in the pools, small voices raised in laughter and excitement.  A fitting tribute to an extraordinary human being.

Today, 20 years after her death, Diana continues to divide the country. A great many people still cannot work out what the fuss was, and still is, about. Yes, she was a good woman who did not deserve to die. But isn’t that true about lots of women, every day? Surely she was just another celebrity? 

But this logic misunderstands the point and appeal of the Royal family. It is popular because millions of people feel that they have a connection with its members and an affinity towards them.