Princess Diana's former butler is to marry his male lover.

Paul Burrell

Paul Burrell

Paul Burrell - who was described by the late princess as her "rock" because of their close relationship - officially divorced wife Maria last year after 32 years of marriage, and it has now been revealed he is to tie the knot with Graham Cooper next month.

A spokesperson for Paul told The Sun newspaper: "I can confirm their forthcoming marriage."

Paul and Maria had reportedly been leading separate lives for several years, and it is believed he and Graham, who are former business partners, have been in a relationship for 10 years.

But the 58-year-old former royal aide kept his sexuality a secret for several years, and for a long time the only person he had confided in was Diana.

The source said: "Paul's friends and family all know but for a long time he kept it a closely guarded secret.

"And for a time, literally nobody knew.

"He did share it with Diana while he worked with her because they were so close.

"But at the time she was the only woman he felt he could tell."

Paul - who has two adult sons with Maria, Alex and Nick - and Graham celebrated their impending nuptials with a joint stag party at a drag club in Blackpool, North West England in February, and will tie the knot in a circus-themed ceremony in the Lake District at the beginning of next month.

A source said they have invited a "limited" number of guests to witness the nuptials, which will take place at a five-star hotel with "stunning views".

The insider added: "They want to let their hair down and enjoy themselves. Guests have a rough idea of where it will take place.

"But to increase the suspense Paul and Graham have kept the exact details of the venue quiet."

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