Princess Anne is aware of Twitter but doesn't like to be on it. The Princess Royal said that she understands social media but will not "go anywhere near it" even if someone pays her.
The only daughter of Queen Elizabeth shared her insights about online technology in the upcoming ITV documentary to celebrate her 70th birthday. Princess Anne said that Twitter and social media are about "being in touch" but it's not the same thing as actually meeting people.
Princess Anne had the documentary crew follow her for a full year for this birthday tribute. The show, set to air on July 29, will also show interviews from people close to the royal, such as her children Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, and old some of her old friends.
Her son, Peter, shared some fond memories in the documentary to describe his mother's formidable image as a strong woman. Peter said that her Princess Anne was the type of mom who would clip the royal children's ears and tell them to behave themselves during royal engagements.
Peter said that, as kids, his mother would always remind them not to yawn or pick on their noses in public. The Queen's eldest grandson also said that their mother brought them up with a clear understanding that they were going to work and not feed off of the royal purse.
Zara echoed her brother's statements and said that being royals with no titles made them strive for success. From the beginning, Princess Anne never wanted any royal distinction for her children because of the pressure and expectations that come with it.
But, Princess Anne was never one to be restricted herself, despite her pedigree. According to some of her closest old friends, the Princess Royal had a "rebellious streak" even as a young woman.
Sandra de Laszlo recalled that they would break out in school and get away from the royal's security officers for some fish and chips. She described Princess Anne as sensible and fun, who was a typical teenager growing up.
Princess Anne's friend said that the paparazzi were present during their teenage days and they did follow the royal around. She was safe while inside their school at Benenden but they would try to take photos of Princess Anne if she's out in public. So, many of her friends and schoolmates also look out for her.
The Princess Royal said that she enjoyed her time in school after previously being homeschooled. She got along with the headmistress even as many of her schoolmates were terrified of the authority.
