Kate's 'rural rival' Rose told to 'say nothing' amid feud rumours

Former model Rose Hanbury remains at the centre of rumours of a rift with Kate Middleton, with royal advisors reportedly stepping in to help the Duchess’ former friend handle the media.

According to the Mail on Sunday the Marchioness of Cholmondeley and her husband David Rocksavage have both been told to ‘say nothing’.

As reports of the rift started doing the rounds in the world’s media, Rose became the target of attacks on her official Instagram accoun, Houghton Hall, with vicious comments that have since been deleted.

And Rose’s closest friends are describing her as “lonely” and “isolated”, according to the publication, with even her husband said to be spending more time away.

“People are worried about her. The most loyal friends are sticking by her but others, they haven't,” a source told the Mail.

“She is very aware about what is being said and she has tried to put a brave face on it.”

Even Rose’s brother is said to have been quizzed by friends over the rumours surrounding his sister, telling people that she is aware of the gossip.

Awkward encounter at royal banquet

Kate and Rose, who hadn’t been seen together in months were both spotted at an event recently.

Rose was photographed arriving to the royal state banquet, held in honour of US President Donald Trump’s UK visit, dazzling in a plunging silk gown.

However, she was pictured without her wedding ring which raised some eyebrows.

Interestingly she also wore the same colour as Kate, who attended the white-tie event in a feathery Alexander McQueen gown, complimented by her famous Lover’s Knot tiara.

The pair were not photographed together on the night, with Rose arriving after the Duchess and seated at a seperate table.

Former friends

The Marquess, David, and by extension his wife, has a unique position of proximity to the royal family thanks to his title, and has regularly been spotted as part of official events.

It was once believed that Rose and David were close friends of William and Kate, and made up part of the ‘Turnip Toff’ set the young royals ran with.

The couples were spotted together on a number of occasions and appeared to enjoy each other’s company, going far beyond mere acquaintances thanks to their respective royal duties.

In March however, The Sun published a piece detailing a falling out between Kate and Rose.

According to the story, the Duchess of Cambridge ordered her husband to ‘phase out’ Rose, whom she allegedly refers to as her ‘rural rival’.

As the wife of David, Rose’s rank may permit her invitations to royal events, but it doesn’t guarantee a warm reception.

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