Carole Middleton

"Over the years, it’s proved wise not to say anything"

"Well, I thought it was better to know what people thought. But it doesn’t make any difference. I’m not really sure how I’m perceived now. But the thing is… it is really normal – most of the time."

"We were pretty much the only ones doing this sort of thing when we started. It was really clear almost from the start that this was going to work. I got help from other mums – paperwork and that kind of thing… I think it’s easier to start a business when you’re young. You’re less aware of the pitfalls and maybe you have less of a lifestyle to lose."

"James would get picked up – very occasionally by someone else – and come back to the office and be here with me"

"I was often finished by 6pm and I didn’t have a long train journey. I think it’s really good to work. It was part of the children’s lives – it still is – and they’d come and help."

"They did a lot of modelling. Catherine was on the cover of one of the catalogues, blowing out candles. Later on, she did some styling and set up the First Birthday side of the business. Pippa did the blog. I still value their ideas and opinions."

"If I come across as normal, that would be great, because that’s what I am"

"Make sure whatever you do doesn’t compromise your family, because that becomes untenable. And don’t be afraid to ask questions."

"I couldn’t do it without Mike and my team"