Mike Tindall’s family found it "daunting" meeting the Royals when he started dating Zara Phillips.
The 37-year-old former England rugby captain admitted his parents Linda, a social worker, and Phil, a rugby player-turned bank worker from Otley in West Yorkshire, England, were understandably nervous to meet his girlfriend’s incredibly famous family.
Mike explained: "When I married Zara, meeting the royal family seemed daunting for my family. But the Queen and every other royal made everyone feel at ease."
Despite his concerns, Mike found the monarch was "incredible" at conducting herself and had a genuine interest in the lives of those around her.
In an interview with Hello! Magazine, he said: "She is incredible and impresses me with how hard she works and how she conducts herself. Which is always with class. She knows what’s going on an makes an effort to find out what’s happening your life. She also has this knack of making you feel comfortable."
Meanwhile, the sportsman – who wed Zara in 2011 and has daughter Mia, two, with the equestrian – has retired from professional rugby and has since raised over £350,000 for military personnel who return home from service and need help to find homes and employment.
Speaking of why he has worked tirelessly for the cause, he explained: "There is a strong comparison between former sportsmen and athletes and retired military personnel.
"Both used to lead a structured, regimented life and when that routine comes to an end, they might feel lost and find it hard to adjust. The charities I support help them adapt and show their skills can be translated into employment."
Mike Tindall: My family were nervous meeting the Royals
