ROYAL family fanatic Anita Atkinson could not be happier with the news, especially as Harry’s bride-to-be has a County Durham connection.

A recent genealogical investigation by The Mail on Sunday found Meghan Markle is connected through her father to a 15th century ancestor of the Queen Mother, Ralph Bowes, the High Sheriff of County Durham. For centuries, the Bowes family lived in the now demolished Streatlam Castle, near Barnard Castle, which later housed John and Josephine Bowes, founders of The Bowes Museum.

Mrs Atkinson said: “The Queen Mother was a regular visitor to County Durham and The Bowes Museum. When she died we lost that direct connection and it’s nice to think it’s been re-established.

“I was absolutely chuffed to bits when I heard the news this morning. I’d been waiting all weekend for an announcement. I think it’s fantastic. In 1936, the king abdicated because he wanted to marry an American divorcee. Harry may not be a king but he is very close to the throne and the fact he is going to marry an American woman who has been married before shows the Royal Family is moving with the times. It’s nice to hear some good news for a change.”

In 2011, Mrs Atkinson, from Fir Tree, near Crook, camped outside Westminster Abbey to ensure she got a good view of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding. She hopes to do the same for the Duke’s brother and his bride on their big day.

“I can’t wait to start planning my trip,” she said. “The atmosphere in London is euphoric. I’m just wondering when it will be. I imagine it will be after Kate has her baby and I expect Princess Charlotte will be bridesmaid.”

Mrs Atkinson said she thought Miss Markle’s profession as an actress would stand her in good stead for the role, adding: “It is not easy being a princess but she will be used to getting a lot of attention from the press.”