A hospital has uncovered evidence that one of its former employees was a descendant of royalty while preparing for the NHS’s 70th birthday.

It was revealed this week that a Northwick Park Hospital intensive care nurse Julie Nassau is a direct descendent of William the Silent, first Stadholder of Holland and known as the father of the Netherlands.

News of Julie’s blue blood heritage came to light as the Trust began collecting material for the NHS70 celebrations this summer marking the 75 years the NHS has been in service. The story was found in an old copy of the staff newsletter.  

Hospital archives showed a Julie meeting a television crew researching the Dutch Royal Family and being jokingly referred to as the “rightful ruler” of modern day Holland.

When asked at the time if Julie was interested in claiming her title, she said: “I’d rather have my job.”