Zara Philips Bio

Zara is something of a maverick in royal circles. She is earning a reputation as a young woman who does as she pleases, making her a good target for the tabloids.

Born in May 1981, it is said that Prince Charles came up with the name Zara. She attended Gordonstoun School in Scotland with her elder brother Peter, and became an enthusiastic horsewoman - like her mother - and a gymnast.

Her reputation for rebellion began during this period when she was caught in the boy's dorms, where girls were not permitted. This persona became more public when she was photographed at her grandmother's birthday sporting a tongue stud.

Although the stud is now gone, Zara once again came into the spotlight for crashing her Land-Rover late at night on her way to Gatscombe Park. She was rumoured to have argued with boyfriend and professional jockey Richard Johnson before driving home.

The latest twist came when the couple sold pictures of themselves at home to Hello! magazine. She now uses her training as a sports masseuse to keep her new-love healthy, and her latest skill - equine physiotherapy - to nurture their horses.

From Royal Jubbly