IN 1991, young windsurfer Charlotte Greenway capsized on the lakes at South Cerney and got a right royal surprise when the Princess Royal came to her rescue.

The eight-year-old toppled off her board during a visit by the Princess to the South Cerney Water Sports Centre.

Her splash occurred 50 yards out into the middle of the lake, right in front of the Princess’s dinghy.

Princess Anne lent a helping hand by pulling the youngster aboard and giving her a welcome lift back to the mainland. 

At first Charlotte did not realise who her famous rescuer was but then it clicked.

“She was very nice,” said Charlotte, “I am going to tell my mummy I have seen a Princess.

The Princess, wearing a yellow sweatshirt, navy slacks, a cream headscarf and nautical pumps, was visiting the centre in her role as president of the Royal Yachting Association and to present certificates to windsurfing beginners.

Among the 70 youngsters having a splashing time on the lakes were the Princess’s two children, Peter, 13, and Zara, 10.

Under a blistering sun, both the young royals ended up in the water too after capsizing their Topper dinghies but it did little to dampen their enthusiasm to have another go.

“They are youngsters just like any others,” said the centre’s manager Graham Lodge.