Queen’s companions on hand for Camilla’s gathering at Buckingham Palace

The Queen Consort had the help and support of some of her most trusted friends as she hosted her first major solo event in her new role on an issue close to her heart.

Camilla’s six newly named Queen’s companions were on hand as she held a 300-strong gathering at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.

The royal met various dignitaries, celebrity ambassadors and politicians as well as survivors of domestic violence and relatives of some women who have lost their lives.

After giving a passionate speech in the palace’s picture gallery on what can be done to tackle the “heinous” crime, Camilla set about mingling with guests as she met scores of women, a number of whom had been directly affected by the issue.

Also attending the event were Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Queen Rania of Jordan and the Crown Princess Mary of Denmark as well as the First Ladies of Ukraine and Sierra Leone.

Camilla’s new Queen’s companions – not traditional ladies-in-waiting – appeared publicly with her for their first engagement since being named as such at the weekend.

The women, who will support her as she carries out her key official and state duties as Queen Consort, were seen greeting guests and chaperoning dignitaries at Tuesday’s reception.

They are her close friends Sarah Troughton, Jane von Westenholz and Fiona, the Marchioness of Lansdowne, Lady Katharine Brooke, Baroness Carlyn Chisholm and Lady Sarah Keswick.

Some of Camilla’s companions looked on as she greeted the other queens, with two of the royals appearing to enquire about her health.

Camilla is understood to be recovering from a seasonal cold.

Queen Rania was heard to ask: “How are you feeling this morning?” to which Camilla appeared to reply that she was fine.

Crown Princess Mary remarked: “You’re still talking?”

The pair had tea with Camilla at Clarence House on Monday afternoon.