What was the most British thing anyone ever said?
The 1974 kidnapping attempt on Princess Anne is a story packed with moments that could only happen in Britain.
It starts with the kidnapper, Ian Ball, politely asking the 23-year-old princess to "come with me for a day or two" for a £2 million ransom. Her response? "Not bloody likely and I haven't got £2 million."
The princess later recalled their "low-key discussion" where she suggested it would be best if he simply "went away."
The situation escalated with a shootout and a policeman getting shot after trying to intervene. Throughout, Anne and Ball continued their "tedious discussion."
When Ball tried to drag Anne from the car, a tug-of-war ensued with her husband. Enter Ron Russell, a former boxer, who saw the commotion and decided the kidnapper "needed sorting." He punched Ball, who then fired a shot narrowly missing Russell.
Finally, Anne made her escape, somersaulting out of the car. Ball was apprehended as he tried to flee.
All injured men recovered, and those who intervened were awarded medals for their bravery.
And the most British part? When the Queen awarded Russell his medal, she said, "The medal is from the Queen, the thank you is from Anne's mother."
This extraordinary tale captures the unique blend of courage, composure, and dry wit that defines the British spirit.
