In the public eye, Prince William, The Prince of Wales, appears to be the epitome of regal decorum and responsibility. However, a closer look into his early years unveils a side of the future king that was anything but conventional. Renowned royal expert Robert Lacey sheds light on Prince William’s playful and rebellious childhood in his book ‘Battle of the Brothers,’ where young William earned amusing nicknames and left a mark as ‘Basher Wills’ or ‘Billy the Basher.’
During his time at Mrs. Jane Mynors’ Nursery School in Notting Hill, which he attended from September 1985, Prince William was far from the solemn figure we know today. He was described as a noisy, cheeky, and at times defiant child who was not afraid to challenge authority.
Prince William’s mischievous side became evident through his involvement in schoolyard fights with his classmates. These childhood brawls often left his peers astounded, as the future Prince of Wales displayed a spirited, if not spirited, nature.
Not one to adhere strictly to school rules, young Wills was known for asserting himself at the front of the lunch queue, much to the chagrin of his fellow students. His defiance of discipline extended beyond the lunch queue, as he occasionally found himself at odds with authority figures.
Princess Diana, the beloved mother of Prince William, affectionately referred to her son as ‘a holy terror.’ This endearing nickname spoke to the young prince’s spirited and at times challenging nature.
In the midst of his childhood adventures, Prince William amused his peers by playfully boasting, “My Daddy can beat up your Daddy. My Daddy’s the Prince of Wales.” This light-hearted royal bragging endeared him to his friends, showcasing his engaging and friendly personality.
The playful and spirited nature of Prince William in his early years stands in stark contrast to the dignified and composed figure he has become as the Duke of Cambridge. These anecdotes offer a charming glimpse into the formative years of a future king, reminding us that even royals were once mischievous children at heart.
