Advertisement

Diana’s secret love for her police bodyguard

In 1985, a year after Prince Harry was born, six-foot-tall police bodyguard Sergeant Barry Mannakee was assigned to Princess Diana.

He was 37-years-old, dark-haired and burly, and Diana was in love with him. At least that’s what she reveals in a private conversation taped eight years later.

Diana and bodyguard Barry Mannakee in 1985
Diana and bodyguard Barry Mannakee in 1985

“I was quite happy to give it all up (her life as a royal), just to go off and live with him,” she tells actor Peter Settelen in tapes that were recorded in 1993 as part of her voice-coaching classes with him.

“Can you believe it? And he kept saying he thought it was a good idea, too.”

Diana goes on to explain that at the time Sergeant Mannakee signed on, her relationship with Prince Charles was strained, and that they were making love just once every three weeks.

Diana is said to have fallen in love with him. Photo: Getty
Diana is said to have fallen in love with him. Photo: Getty

When asked if the police officer fulfilled the sense of intimacy she felt she was lacking in her marriage, Diana replied, “Yeah”. However, she also made it clear their relationship was never sexual.

What they did share were long chats while driving up to Gloucestershire together at the weekends with William and Harry.

People around them also recalled flirty moments, such as one occasion when Diana apparently wiggled her bum at Sergeant Mannakee and asked if she looked good.

“Sensational, as you know you do. I could quite fancy you myself,” he is said to have replied.

Sergeant Mannakee keeping an eye on Prince William. Photo: Getty
Sergeant Mannakee keeping an eye on Prince William. Photo: Getty

Sadly however, the bodyguard’s closeness to the Princess was seen as an issue by his superiors, and he was moved on to a different role.

Just a year later, he was killed in a road accident.

This recording of Diana’s is due to be broadcast in Britain as part of a Channel 4 programme.

RELATED: Queen's response to Diana's brother's damning speech
RELATED: William: 'Diana would be a nightmare grandmother'

Wantmore celebrity, entertainment and lifestyle news? Follow Be on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and Instagram