Prince William has made it clear that 'change is on my agenda' when he becomes King. But he has a rather sizeable problem - he is running out of royals to do the legwork.

Once, there was a raft of working royals to carry out the cake-cutting, tree-planting and charity visits that are the bedrock of the family’s work.

They, and their photogenic families, filled up the Buckingham Palace balcony, dutifully turned out for Trooping the Colour, and clocked up a huge number of engagements in the UK and abroad.

In 2011, there were 12 major royals who covered 3,874 duties, while in 2024 that figure had dropped to 2,168 (partly due to the cancer diagnoses of the King and Princess of Wales).

Last year, royal engagements rose to 2,459 according to the Court Circular, which lists the work of the Royal Family.

But age is an issue. Of today’s current working royals, only four are under 75 (Prince William, Princess Catherine, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh). Princess Anne is 76 this year, while the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester are 81 and 79 respectively. The Duke of Kent, 90, and Princess Alexandra, 89, have practically (and quite rightly) retired due to old age and ill health.

Scandal - in the form of the man formerly known as Prince Andrew and his friendship with the convicted paedophile and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein - has rocked the royals.

His disgrace also means that, for the moment, his daughters, Princess Beatrice, 37, and Princess Eugenie, 35, have stepped back. They are not working royals and have their own jobs (Beatrice runs her own consulting company, while Eugenie is a director at Hauser & Wirth art gallery), but have, until recently, helped out at family engagements.

So could this mean that Prince William will look to the youngest of the late Queen’s grandchildren to support him?

Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and her younger brother James, the Earl of Wessex, are the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh’s children. Following in the footsteps of their grandparents, both have enjoyed military training in the army cadets.

They embody the dutiful tradition of the House of Windsor, turning out for the royal Christmas at Sandringham, Easter at Windsor and Trooping the Colour with good cheer.

Yet growing up, their parents have shielded them from the harsh glare of a royal childhood in the limelight. Their public appearances have been few and far between – a family trip to Bristol Zoo (of which Prince Edward is patron) in 2019, a Southsea beach clean in 2020 to promote marine conservation, and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

As Lady Louise finishes university this summer, could the 22-year-old be the family’s new secret weapon and saving grace? So suggests royal expert Christopher Wilson, who described her as a 'dark-horse contender' for the new face of the monarchy.

The late Queen’s granddaughter, says Wilson, 'charms all who meet her and could be a useful asset to the royal team.' But, he cautions, Sophie’s 'vastly protective' maternal instincts might mean Lady Louise stays 'out of the spotlight' for the time being.

For now, at least, the young royal - 17th in line to the throne - is focusing on her studies. After A levels at St Mary’s School Ascot, she’s now in her fourth year at the University of St Andrews studying English literature. Friends there speak of a 'very popular, sporty and down-to-earth' young woman who loves acting.

Like her fellow alumni, Prince William and Kate Middleton, Lady Louise appears to have found love in Scotland, with rumoured boyfriend Felix da Silva-Clamp often accompanying the Duchess of Edinburgh to watch Lady Louise competing in carriage-driving competitions.

James, 18, is currently in his last year at boys’ boarding school Radley College in Oxfordshire.

As James and Louise grew up at the family’s palatial Surrey home, Bagshot Park, they spent a lot of time with their grandparents at nearby Windsor Castle. It meant they enjoyed a close relationship with the late Queen and Prince Philip. And much to his delight, Lady Louise took up her grandfather’s sporting passion of carriage driving.

Following his death in 2021, he left her his own carriage and driving ponies, and in the TV documentary Prince Philip: The Royal Family Remembers, she paid a moving tribute to her beloved 'Grandpa'.

She recalled the close bond the two of them shared, forged over many years of a mutual love of carriage driving: 'After a competition, he would always ask how it went. His eyes would light up because he just gets so excited when he talks about it.'

As the grandchildren of the monarch, James and Louise were entitled to style themselves Prince/Princess and use their His/Her Royal Highness (HRH) titles. But perhaps with an eye on Princess Anne’s decision not to give titles to her two children, Peter and Zara Phillips, Sophie and Edward also chose not to do so.

It has enabled both Louise and James to lead very private lives. Louise even had holiday jobs at her local garden centre - on the minimum wage, where she operated the tills - so she could save up to buy her first car.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, as senior working royals, have proved a safe pair of hands - and upon whom Prince William has indicated that he will rely once he is King.

Their down-to-earth and dutiful children could also reinvigorate the brand, while Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven, are given time to grow up.

Whether Louise and James wish to serve as first rank royals is a different matter - although Louise has indicated she wants to serve in the armed forces. The King and Prince William have talked about the virtues of a slimmed-down royal family. But new blood is always vital if the monarchy is to stay reinvigorated and relevant.

Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Earl of Wessex’s "really important" moment was high-profile and had Duchess Sophie "holding her breath".

The Duchess of Edinburgh doesn’t often talk about her children at engagements so whenever she makes an exception it is always a special moment that gives new insight. Lady Louise Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex aren’t expected to become working royals like their parents and although they attend family events like Christmas and the Easter Sunday service, they generally live their lives outside of the spotlight. However, Lady Louise and James’s "really important" royal moment was watched by so many people - including their mum.

Speaking during her final royal engagement before turning 60, Duchess Sophie has reflected upon what it was like for her when her children stood in vigil by the coffin of their beloved "Granny" Queen Elizabeth in 2022, two days before her funeral. They joined all their cousins for this poignant moment and the Duchess described it as being "really important" for them.

As per The Telegraph, the Duchess of Edinburgh was invited to visit L’Arche by Richard Keagan-Bull, a campaigner and author of an autobiography called Don’t Put Us Away: Memories of a Man With Learning Disabilities. L’Arche builds communities for people with and without learning disabilities and Richard asked Duchess Sophie about this royal vigil before she left.

Describing the moment she saw Lady Louise and James standing there as "incredibly moving", she expressed how she was "just so proud of them" and of "all of the cousins". At the time Queen Elizabeth’s grandchildren held their vigil Lady Louise was 18 and James just 14 - and this had been something that was on Duchess Sophie’s mind beforehand.

"I suppose there was a part of me initially that thought, ‘Would it be appropriate for James, perhaps, to do it?’ because he was younger than the others, but he was really keen to do it." she continued. "And I think it was really important for him to do it, and obviously for Louise as well."

Duchess Sophie declared that "each and every one of them" did it "so well", before revealing she’d held her breath a little, willing them to be happy with how they’d honoured Queen Elizabeth.

She said, "I was slightly holding my breath, wanting them to feel that they’d done it well more than anything else. I wasn’t worried about anything happening; it was more that I wanted them to feel that they’d done their bit for their grandmother. It was incredibly moving, and lovely to see her surrounded by them."

Whilst they both prefer a high level of privacy, it was clear how much it meant to them both to stand alongside Prince William, Prince Harry, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall at this vigil. Lady Louise and James are understood to have been very close to both Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Duchess Sophie’s daughter actually made her TV debut in order to share her personal memories of her grandfather in the BBC’s 2021 Prince Philip: The Royal Family Remembers documentary.

"There was certainly an element of making my grandfather proud and honouring him by taking part in the award that has been so much of his life's work," she said, talking about taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award. "I definitely hope I have made him proud."

It’s been claimed that King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla may move from Clarence House and into Buckingham Palace permanently after its refurbishment is completed. This major move for the monarch would suggest a change in attitude, as both Charles and Camilla were reported to have been against living in what the King calls “the big house” in the past.

• Sources suggest King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla will move permanently into Buckingham Palace
• The move to make the Palace their main residence won’t be until at least 2027, after a costly renovation plan
• In other royal news, Lady Louise Windsor denied title change as she remains only Queen’s descendent to hold important name

While Buckingham Palace is the official residence of Great Britain’s monarch, it’s understood that they can choose to make somewhere else their actual home.

The late Queen Elizabeth decided to settle in Windsor Castle permanently during the last months of her life, as an example.

For King Charles and Camilla, Clarence House has always been where they feel home when in London – with Highgrove another favorite residence of theirs.

However, new reports suggest that the King and Queen Consort might make a move into Buckingham Palace after a huge renovation is finished.

Buckingham Palace – which has a staggering 775 rooms, including 19 staterooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms – will undergo renovations for the next four years.

The cost of these improvements are estimated to total over $444 million.

The news that they could move to the Palace might be surprising to some royal dans, who have long understood that it’s not a favorite of either the King or Queen Consort.

A source, as per the Daily Express, has previously said that Charles is "no fan" of Buckingham Palace - which he describes as "the big house.”

An insider has also previously told The Sunday Times: "He doesn’t see it as a viable future home or a house that’s fit for purpose in the modern world. He feels that its upkeep, both from a cost and environmental perspective, is not sustainable."

Another source also said that Queen Consort Camilla "doesn’t want to live at Buckingham Palace" either.

But the move could be Charles’ way of solidifying his reign after his coronation this summer. Tourists used to flock to Buckingham Palace understanding it to be the Queen’s home, after all.  

The news of this future move comes as more changes are introduced to the family.

Prince Edward and Sophie received new titles this week, becoming the new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.

A statement from Buckingham Palace said, "His Majesty The King has been pleased to confer the Dukedom of Edinburgh upon The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Forfar, on the occasion of His Royal Highness’s 59th birthday. The title will be held by Prince Edward for His Royal Highness’s lifetime.”

"The new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are proud to continue Prince Philip’s legacy of promoting opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to reach their full potential."

It also meant a change for their son, James, formerly Viscount Severn.

He becomes the new Earl of Wessex - the title that his father was granted on his wedding day - however, there is no change Lady Louise Windsor, Edward and Sophie's daughter, whose title will remain the same.

The Queen is said to have shared a seriously sweet TV tradition with Lady Louise Windsor, who is said to have been her favorite grandchild. 

• The late Queen Elizabeth II reportedly loved visiting Lady Louise Windsor and James Viscount, Severn to watch children's TV show, Mr Tumble, with them. 
• Her Majesty would visit Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex's children when they were little to watch the show with them. 
• In other royal news, Prince George and Princess Charlotte were taken on a very exciting outing by Kate and William - but Louis had to stay home.

While the late Queen Elizabeth II adored all eight of her grandchildren, she is said to have shared a particular bond with Lady Louise Windsor, who has been hailed her 'favorite' of her children's children by royal experts over the years. 

It's been claimed that Her Majesty and Lady Louise, who is now 19-years-old and at university at St Andrews in Scotland, would enjoy some cozy television time together when Louise was a little girl. 

Louise is the eldest child of Prince Edward and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, who also share 15-year-old James, Viscount Severn. 

It's believed that James and Louise would pay their granny visits at Windsor Castle, nearby to their Bagshot Park home, or the monarch would come over to them in order to spend quality time by the TV. 

"I remember years ago a member of royal staff telling me how they walked in and the Queen was watching Mr Tumble with Louise and James," royal journalist Rebecca English told the Express. 

"She was able to indulge her grandchildren in the way she probably wasn't able to indulge her own children. It's really quite lovely to see," she added. 

Lady Louise and the Queen formed a close bond over the years, with a royal insider telling The Sun that she was her "favorite grandchild, closely followed by James."

The long-reigning Queen, who passed away in September 2022 at Balmoral Castle, and Lady Louise shared a true love of horses and riding, which they closely bonded over. 

Meanwhile, Lady Louise and her grandfather, Prince Philip, loved to spend days carriage riding together, after she followed his footsteps in taking up his beloved hobby. 

We reveal why Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn could potentially mirror Prince William and Prince Harry with their life choices. 

• Sophie, Countess of Wessex previously discussed what paths her children might take in terms of going to university or not.  
• She correctly believed it was something Lady Louise might want to do though seemed to suggest that other options might appeal to James.
• This royal news comes as we revealed that King Charles and Queen Camilla’s wedding was rescheduled for a heart-breaking reason and it’s nothing to do with protocol.   

Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn are the youngest of the late Queen’s grandchildren and so whilst fans are treated to plenty of public appearances and huge projects from their older cousins they’re still forging their own paths in life. However, there are two of their cousins in particular, Prince William and Prince Harry, whose choices after leaving school could potentially end up being mirrored by Lady Louise and James. 

Opening up to The Sunday Times back in 2020, Sophie Wessex discussed the potential pathways her two children might take - and her prediction for her daughter has turned out to be correct. She expressed her belief that Lady Louise, who is 15th in the royal line of succession, would follow in the footsteps of many of her cousins, including Prince William, and go on to study at university. 

“She’s working hard and will do A-levels,” the doting mom said. “I hope she goes to university. I wouldn’t force her, but if she wants to. She’s quite clever, so I think probably [she will]”. 

Two years later, Lady Louise is now in her second term at the University of St Andrews, where the Prince and Princess of Wales studied and where their romance first blossomed. Her younger brother James, Viscount Severn might be set for a very different path altogether though. 

Amid her remarks about Lady Louise’s potential pursuit of a university degree, Sophie Wessex also briefly reflected upon whether she imagines the same will be the case for James. Her thoughtful verdict at the time was that she wasn’t sure, saying simply, “Whereas James, I don’t know.” 

Of course, 16-year-old James - whose royal lookalike is Princess Margaret’s grandson Arthur Chatto - is still at school and yet to decide on his future path. He might be inspired to enter further education like Lady Louise. Though Sophie being less certain if university will be what he wants could indicate that James might possibly decide against it. 

If it does, he will also be in good company as plenty of members of the immediate and extended Royal Family didn’t attend university, including the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry. The Duke of Sussex forged a successful military career, rising to the rank of Captain in the Army. Given how many royals have served in the Armed Forces, James could potentially choose to take this route in life. 

Alternatively, he could wish to carve a career for himself in an industry that interests him. In the same interview, the Countess of Wessex confirmed that she and Prince Edward are bringing Lady Louise and James up to know that they likely won’t be paid, working royals. 

She explained, “We try to bring them up with the understanding they are very likely to have to work for a living.”

Whatever path James takes in future, whether it involves university or not, Sophie’s heartfelt comments showed that she is fully supportive of whatever her children choose and won’t ever “force” them to do one thing over another. 

Princess Margaret’s grandson Arthur Chatto is a royal lookalike to the Queen’s grandson, though they’re rarely seen together. 

• Princess Margaret’s grandson Arthur Chatto and the Queen’s youngest grandchild, James, Viscount Severn, couldn’t have looked more similar at certain ages.
• The two royals aren’t glimpsed in public often though they have both accompanied their close family to major occasions in recent years. 
• This royal news comes as Prince Harry's weird sweetie habit as a boy was revealed. 

Although Princess Margaret’s granddaughter has become more prominent in recent years, including making an appearance at Tatler’s Little Black Book Party in 2022, one of her grandsons also often attracts fan’s attention when he’s glimpsed at royal events. The youngest son of Lady Sarah Chatto, Arthur Chatto, made royal history when he became the first royal ever to join the Royal Marines after leaving his former profession as a personal trainer. Princess Margaret’s rarely-seen grandson is now 24 and was one of the members of the extended Royal Family wearing military uniform as he paid his respects at the late Queen’s funeral last year. 

But as a teenager in more low-key clothes, he couldn’t have looked more like Queen Elizabeth’s grandson. Sixteen-year-old James, Viscount Severn is the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren and the only son of Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex.

Despite the eight year age difference and how different the adult Arthur currently looks to James, the resemblance between them at this stage in their lives is clearly seen at around their early teenage years. With similar haircuts and serious expressions when caught on camera, Arthur at 13 and James from about 9-years-old and even up to now look incredibly alike. 

However, it’s perhaps unlikely that fans might’ve noticed that Princess Margaret’s grandson and Queen Elizabeth’s grandson look so similar as they’re rarely seen in public. Both attended a Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip and another for the Queen’s Jubilee last year, as well as the Queen’s funeral service. 

Despite this, as James, Viscount Severn is part of the immediate Royal Family and Arthur a more distant relative, the two aren’t often seated close enough to each other for the resemblance to become hugely noticeable. 

For huge royal occasions, different family groups also tend to arrive together and the Wessexes and the Chattos often arrive separately, perhaps in line with James’ family members being higher up in the royal line of succession. 

James, Viscount Severn is also just 16 and is still at school, whilst Arthur is a busy officer in the Royal Marines and so unless it’s a major royal event, the pair are generally not glimpsed often in public at the same time. So sadly, the distant cousins aren’t often seen in each other's presence though Princess Margaret’s grandson’s startling resemblance to James might continue as the teenager gets older.

Both have a high level of privacy and Sophie Wessex has previously spoken about how she and Prince Edward have tried to make it clear that James and his sister Lady Louise will also have to earn their own living. 

“We try to bring them up with the understanding they are very likely to have to work for a living,” she told The Sunday Times. “Hence we made the decision not to use HRH titles. They have them and can decide to use them from 18, but I think it’s highly unlikely.” 

Princess Charlotte was given a huge advantage at the age of two, making royal history.

• The Prince and Princess of Wales' daughter made history after the birth of her younger brother, Prince Louis, in April 2018.
• Princess Charlotte is the only female royal to have benefited from the advantage so far.
• In other royal news, Lady Louise Windsor was also granted a historic honour.

After the birth of Prince Louis, Princess Charlotte - who was two at the time - became the first female royal to benefit from The Succession to the Crown Act (2013), which states that girls will not be overtaken by younger brothers.

The Act only applies to those born after 28 October 2011, meaning that other key female members of the Royal Family have missed out.

Princess Charlotte is third-in-line to the throne, after her older brother Prince George, putting her ahead of younger brother Prince Louis. However, the late Queen and Duke of Edinburgh's only daughter Princess Anne is much further down the line of succession than her younger brothers, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward.

The Princess Royal, who celebrated her 72nd birthday in August, is currently in 16th place behind her niece, Lady Louise Windsor.

If the rules had been changed at the time of Anne's birth in 1950, her children Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall would be much closer to the throne than their cousins, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who are currently tenth and 11th.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex's daughter Lady Louise Windsor, 19, was also overtaken by her younger brother James, Viscount Severn in the royal line of succession after his birth in 2007. James is currently 14th in line, while Lady Louise is 15th.

We recently revealed how Lady Louise Windsor was granted historic honor after her birth, that her brother James never had.

Lady Louise Windsor was baptized at the private chapel at Windsor Castle in April 2004 wearing a stunning Victorian christening gown. This family heirloom is also known as the Honiton christening gown and was commissioned by Queen Victoria for her first-born, Princess Victoria’s baptism. 

The gown was reportedly inspired by Queen Victoria's Wedding dress, as per Town & Country, and is understood to have been worn by 62 royal babies. Queen Elizabeth, King Charles and Prince William were all christened in it, though Lady Louise was the last to wear it. 

After her christening it was officially retired and a beautiful replica was made, designed to be as close to the real thing as possible. Viscount Severn was the first royal baby to wear the new christening gown and it’s been used plenty of times since, including at the baptisms of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. 

Lady Louise Windsor’ historic honor of getting to wear the christening gown for the last time is a very special privilege. She’s currently at the University of St Andrews studying English Literature and despite her lineage Lady Louise Windsor isn’t a Princess by title. 

Lady Louise Windsor’s historic honor was granted when she was a baby and it’s something that her brother James, Viscount Severn never had.  

• Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex’s only daughter had the privilege of being the last royal child to be christened wearing a precious family heirloom.  
• By the time her younger brother was born a replica of the original Victorian gown had been made and ever since this has been worn instead. 
• This royal news comes as we revealed Princess Anne’s rare royal privilege that Princess Eugenie and Beatrice never got to experience.  

Whilst she might not be one of the late Queen’s grandchildren that’s seen most often in public, Lady Louise Windsor has been stepping out more in recent years. Lady Louise has shown her prowess at carriage driving at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and joined her parents Sophie Wessex and Prince Edward at a Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip and at the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations. She’s understood to have been incredibly close to both of her royal grandparents and Lady Louise Windsor’s birth marked a turning point for Prince Philip in particular.

But it was five months after she was born in November 2003 that Lady Louise Windsor’s historic honor was granted. And it’s one that no royal since  - not even her brother James, Viscount Severn - has ever had… 

Lady Louise Windsor was baptized at the private chapel at Windsor Castle in April 2004 wearing a stunning Victorian christening gown. This family heirloom is also known as the Honiton christening gown and was commissioned by Queen Victoria for her first-born, Princess Victoria’s baptism. 

The gown was reportedly inspired by Queen Victoria's Wedding dress, as per Town & Country, and is understood to have been worn by 62 royal babies. Queen Elizabeth, King Charles and Prince William were all christened in it, though Lady Louise was the last to wear it. 

After her christening it was officially retired and a beautiful replica was made, designed to be as close to the real thing as possible. 

Viscount Severn was the first royal baby to wear the new christening gown and it’s been used plenty of times since, including at the baptisms of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. 

Lady Louise Windsor’ historic honor of getting to wear the christening gown for the last time is a very special privilege. She’s currently at the University of St Andrews studying English Literature and despite her lineage Lady Louise Windsor isn’t a Princess by title. 

Her mother previously got candid about how she and her husband have raised Lady Louise and James to know they’ll probably have to work for a living. She also expressed to the BBC’s Naga Munchetty last year how Lady Louise prefers to remain “private”. 

“She doesn’t really get involved with social media very much at all and that is purely her choice. I wouldn’t deny her going onto it, but she’s not really that interested in it,” the Countess explained. “There’s a few platforms that she talks to her friends on but that’s basically it, she doesn’t put anything out about herself at all. She’s very private.”

It’s not yet known when Lady Louise Windsor might next be seen in public. Though as the daughter of two working royals and the King’s niece, it’s likely that will be in attendance at King Charles’ coronation in May.

There’s a little-known title Sophie Wessex has that she doesn’t use and it’s understood that the same thing is true of other prominent royals. 

• The Countess of Wessex is believed to have another title that she never uses and she isn’t the only one either.
• It’s thought that when she married Prince Edward she also technically became Princess Edward as she took on his titles.  
• This royal news comes as we revealed how Princess Eugenie’s second child will mean Princess Anne has to give up her new place in the Royal Family.  

Sophie might be best known as the Countess of Wessex since her 1999 marriage to the youngest of Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth’s children, Prince Edward. The senior royal is also known as the Countess of Forfar in Scotland, but it seems like these might not be the only titles she gained upon her marriage. There’s a little-known title that Sophie Wessex has that might come as a surprise given that her daughter Lady Louise Windsor isn’t referred to as Princess and her son James, Viscount Severn isn’t called Prince. 

It’s understood that Sophie Wessex is also technically Princess - although not Princess Sophie. As the wife of the late Queen’s son Prince Edward and not a Princess by blood, she would be Princess Edward, although she’s never used this particular title. 

The same is thought to be true of Kate Middleton, with Town & Country previously reporting that Kate took on her husband Prince William’s title when they married in 2011. This apparently meant she effectively became Princess William as well as Duchess of Cambridge - and now Princess of Wales. 

This also follows the pattern seen amongst the extended Royal Family where Prince Michael of Kent’s wife Marie-Christine is known as Princess Michael of Kent, as she’s also the wife of a Prince. Following this pattern, it seems that Meghan Markle is also technically Princess Henry as the wife of Prince Harry (whose full given name is Henry).

The only Princesses who are known by their own name in the immediate Royal Family are Princess Anne, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and Princess Charlotte because they were all born into the Royal Family. But whilst Sophie Wessex might technically be Princess Edward, she has never been formally known as this. 

It’s also been suggested that Sophie Wessex could get a new title previously held by the Queen and become Duchess of Edinburgh if Prince Edward receives the Duke of Edinburgh title.

The title passed to King Charles after Prince Philip’s death and is now merged with the crown and yet to be bestowed upon anyone else. Although recent reports have claimed the King might want to make Princess Charlotte the Duchess of Edinburgh in her own right, in the past it was thought that Prince Edward would receive it. 

When Prince Edward and Sophie got married Buckingham Palace released a statement, as per Edinburgh Live, which said as much at the time. 

“The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales have also agreed that the Prince Edward should be given the Dukedom of Edinburgh in due course, when the present title held now by Prince Philip eventually reverts to the Crown,” it declared. 

The final decision is King Charles’ to make though if he does make Prince Edward the Duke of Edinburgh and Sophie becomes the Duchess, then this will join the little-known title Sophie Wessex has as Princess Edward and her two best known ones as Countess of Wessex and of Forfar. 

The Wessex Christmas card doesn't include images of Lady Louise or James Viscount Severn for the second year in a row. Despite this, Sophie Wessex and Prince Edward's firstborn was actually involved in one of the most touching images in the card - in a very unexpected way.

• One of the images of the Queen and Prince Philip that feature in the card was taken by Sophie Wessex - who was pregnant with Lady Louise at the time.
• The Wessex Christmas card pays tribute to the Queen and Prince Philip's memory and fans have dubbed it a hit.
• In other royal news, We can't wait to copy the Queen's GENIUS way of eating mince pies this Christmas.

For the last two years, Lady Louise wasn't in the Wessex Christmas card nor was her brother, the youngest of the late Queen’s grandchildren, James, Viscount Severn. In fact, speculation about why the rarely-seen royal James, Viscount Severn probably wouldn't appear on Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex’s Christmas card this year has already been brewing.

Unexpectedly, this year, the family's festive missive includes a gentle nod to their only daughter, as Sophie Countess Wessex was expecting when she took the adorable snap of her late parents-in-law, which features inside.

The Wessex Christmas card has the heartbreaking inscription, “In memory of happy days," and is accompanied by two images of joyous family moments. The main image on the front of the card is of the Countess and Prince Edward, alongside the Queen in the months before her passing. The shot was taken in Scotland at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in June 2022, when the couple and the Queen attended the Ceremony of the Keys.

In the second image, the Scottish theme continues as the now famous shot of Prince Philip and the Queen sitting smiling in Balmoral Castle features. The snap in question was taken by Sophie, who subsequently revealed why it's especially precious to her.

Following the passing of Prince Philip, the Countess opened up during a candid interview with Naga Munchetty on the radio show BBC Five Live in June 2021.

Addressing the grief following her father-in-law's passing she said, "I mean, we were lucky enough to go to Scotland for half-term, and I don't know if you remember the photograph that I took. I was pregnant with Louise at the time, and we went up there, during half-term," she said, pausing to compose herself as she became emotional. "And just to be there, in that place, was an, 'Oh my God' moment. Um, so I think they'll come and go, but you have to let them come, and let them go."

Lady Louise Windsor’s birth marked a turning point for Prince Philip, which many credit with her closeness to her grandparents. In recent years, as her popularity has increased, many have wondered why isn't Lady Louise a Princess. However, as Lady Louise's future plans were revealed earlier this year, it appears that the future is bright for the young royal - no matter what title she chooses.

There could be a very good reason why rarely-seen royal James, Viscount Severn might not appear on Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex’s Christmas card this year. 

• Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex’s Christmas card photos for the past two years haven’t featured their two children.  
• James, Viscount Severn has just turned 15 years old and the Countess has previously explained how they wanted him and his sister to “grow up as normally as possible”.
• This royal news comes as Prince William was spotted at his ex-girlfriend's Christmas wedding without Kate Middleton.    

He might be the part of the immediate Royal Family, but the youngest of the late Queen’s grandchildren, James, Viscount Severn, isn’t often seen compared to plenty of his cousins like Prince William and Princess Eugenie. Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex’s son turned 15 on December 17 and likely marked the day in private with his family as no photos of him were shared by the royals of his big day. And the same could be the case when the Wessex Christmas card photo is released. 

In previous years Prince Edward and Sophie’s Christmas card photo has been seen in late December, in the days after James’ birthday. But there’s one thing both the 2020 and 2021 cards have in common - neither Viscount Severn or his older sister Lady Louise Windsor were in them! 

Family Christmas photos are released by other members of the Royal Family each year too. Already fans have been treated to King Charles and Queen Camilla’s first one as monarch and Queen Consort and Kate Middleton and Prince William’s Christmas card photo was incredibly relaxed and heart-warming. 

Theirs also featured all three of their children, but the Wessexes didn’t choose to do this for the past two years at least. Instead, Prince Edward and Sophie’s Christmas card picture for 2020 showed the couple during a visit to Vauxhall City Farm and their 2021 snap was taken at an engagement at Forfar Golf Club. 

If they decide to uphold the tradition of sharing Christmas card photos that don’t have James, Viscount Severn or Lady Louise in them for 2022, there could be a very good reason behind this. 

As per Express.co.uk, the Countess told the BBC in 2016 how she and Prince Edward were focused on ensuring both children grew up “as normally as possible”. 

“Certainly when they were very young we tried to keep them out of it. Only because for their sakes, to grow up as normally as possible we felt was quite important," she explained. “And they’re going to have to go out and get a job and earn a living later on in life - if they’ve had as normal a start in life they possibly can get, then hopefully that will stand them in good stead."

Sophie echoed this parenting ethos when she spoke to The Sunday Times in 2020 and declared, “We try to bring them up with the understanding they are very likely to have to work for a living.”

As their youngest child, James, Viscount Severn especially hasn’t been seen publicly very often over the years. He made rare appearances in September at a silent vigil for the late Queen alongside her other grandchildren, as well as at the Lying-In-State, her funeral and committal services. Fans also saw Viscount Severn over the Jubilee weekend and at the Commonwealth Games alongside his family. 

So it seems Prince Edward and Sophie’s son’s public appearances are generally at major events, whilst he retains a high level of privacy at most other times. Because of this, it could be seen as likely that the rarely-seen royal, James, Viscount won’t be included in any Wessex Christmas card photo this year. 

It’s said Princess Catherine “admires” the parenting style of two fellow royals and reportedly hopes to emulate this for Prince George, Charlotte and Louis.

• The Princess of Wales is said to “admire” the way Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex are raising Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn. 
• It’s been claimed that Princess Catherine wants to raise her children in a similar way.
• This royal news comes as the priceless jewelry worn in the Queen’s final portrait proved that family always came first for Her Majesty.  

During a walkabout in Windsor on September 10, Prince William and Princess Catherine revealed they’re maintaining “normality” for their three children as the Royal Family grieve the loss of Queen Elizabeth II. Now it’s been suggested that Princess Catherine could be hoping to emulate the parenting style of Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex, when it comes to giving her children a relatively quiet upbringing as royals.

As reported by Express.co.uk in her new book, The New Royals: Queen Elizabeth’s legacy and the Future of the Crown, royal correspondent Katie Nicholl wrote that Princess Catherine “admires” the Wessexes for preparing their kids for the “real world”.

The youngest of the late Queen’s grandchildren, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn, have been raised largely outside the royal spotlight at Bagshot Park and do not have HRH titles.

“Kate is said to admire the way Prince Edward and his wife, Sophie, are raising their children – Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn – in the bosom of the Royal Family but prepared for life in the real world,” she reportedly alleged.

The publication also suggested that the book claimed that Princess Catherine wishes to adopt a similar parenting style. This comes just a few years after the Countess of Wessex opened up about how Louise and James are “very likely” to have to work for a living.

Speaking to The Sunday Times back in 2020 Sophie said, “We try to bring them up with the understanding they are very likely to have to work for a living.”

She later added, “They go to a regular school. They go to friends for sleepovers and parties. At weekends we do lots of dog walking and stay with friends.”

Now Lady Louise Windsor is following in Prince William and Princess Catherine’s footsteps having secured a place to study at St Andrews University. Although Prince George being second in the royal line of succession means that it might be difficult for him to live out of the royal spotlight, Katie Nicholls suggested that Louis could possibly end up becoming a “private citizen” and Charlotte might also have a career. 

“George, Charlotte, and Louis, who had starring roles at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June, are being raised by their parents with an awareness of their positions and the roles they will one day carry out in support of the monarchy,” the author alleged. “George knows that like his papa, he will one day be king, while Charlotte will likely juggle the role of being the spare with a career."

“Louis could well be a private citizen undertaking occasional royal duties, like William and Harry’s cousins Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips, as well as princesses Beatrice and Eugenie," she added.

Members of the Wales and Wessex families are understood to be close and have been spotted together on many occasions over the years, from chatting animatedly at the Commonwealth Games in July to standing side-by-side on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Jubilee.

Lady Louise Windsor isn't a Princess unlike two of The Queen's other granddaughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Here's the interesting reason why she isn't a Princess - even though she could be. 

• Lady Louise Windsor is the daughter of Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex
• Although she isn't a Princess at the moment, this could all change
• In other Royal news, we break down the Royal Family's new titles as Charles becomes King.

Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn are the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren, but unlike some of their cousins they do not use the titles of HRH Prince or Princess.

As the granddaughter of the Queen via her youngest son Prince Edward, Lady Louise could become a Princess one day. The reason for this is the historical Letters Patent issued back in 1917 which is still honored today. This regulation states that a princely status and the title of Royal Highness is given to all male-line grandchildren of a monarch. In other words, sons of the reigning monarch are able to father little Princes and Princesses.

Despite this honor being a birthright, when Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex were married, Buckingham Palace released a statement that said any of their children would gain the titles reserved for children of an Earl. Some suggested that this could all change when Lady Louise celebrated her 18th birthday on November 8, 2021 but this wasn't the case.

After Queen Elizabeth II’s death aged 96 at Balmoral Castle on September 8, 2022, the Royal Family will undergo many changes - the obvious being King Charles III sitting on the throne. However, other royals' titles will also change - which may include Lady Louise's father Prince Edward.

HELLO!reports that Buckingham Palace previously said, on the marriage of Sophie Wessex and Prince Edward, "The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Prince of Wales have also agreed that Prince Edward should be given the dukedom of Edinburgh in due course when the present title now held by Prince Philip eventually reverts to the Crown." In other words, Prince Edward could become the Duke of Edinburgh after his mother's death - but that's up to King Charles.

If the Prince becomes the Duke of Edinburgh, however, Lady Louise's title would remain the same - unless she decides otherwise. This isn't likely, claims her mother Sophie, who's spoken openly about bringing her children up, "with the understanding they are very likely to have to work for a living."

Speaking in an interview with the Sunday Times, the Countess of Wessex explained, “Hence we made the decision not to use HRH titles. They have them and can decide to use them from 18, but I think it’s highly unlikely.”

Countess Sophie has pointed out before that Lady Louise is, "a lot more fortunate," than her cousins, owing to her ability to choose. The Countess appears to know her daughter well as after turning 18, the young royal hasn't chosen to use HRH and is seemingly content with her life as is. 

Sophie Wessex made a very special effort to support the Queen following the death of Prince Philip, according to a royal correspondent. 

• Sophie Wessex made a kind gesture to support the Queen in the aftermath of Prince Philip's death, according to a royal insider. 
• The Countess of Wessex became Her Majesty's 'favorite' Royal Family member in 2021, after proving herself as a reliable 'sounding board' for the monarch's honest thoughts. 
• In other royal news, Prince Harry delays possible reconciliation with William and Kate and is set to 'make things worse'.
  

Sophie Wessex showed her support for the Queen after her husband's death with a sweet gesture, a royal insider has revealed. 

Prince Philip died aged 99 in April 2021, leaving Her Majesty widowed after 73 years of marriage. In the months following this devastating loss, the 96-year-old found solace in a high-profile female royal - and no, it wasn't Kate Middleton. 

Sophie Wessex, the wife of the youngest of Queen Elizabeth's children, Prince Edward, reportedly played a key role in helping the monarch cope with the tremendous grief. According to royal expert Duncan Larcombe, the Countess would "drive the 10 miles from her Bagshot Park home to Windsor Castle every few days and most weekends to spend socially-distanced time” with her regal mother-in-law. When she wasn't able to make the journey, she would apparently "make a point" to ring the Queen so the two could catch up on the day's events. The thoughtful gestures have made the two women, who were already understood to be close, an even stronger unit. 

Sophie quickly became "the Queen’s unlikely ‘rock’", offering a source of comfort during one of the hardest years of Her Majesty's life. 

It also helped that the Countess, 57, was able to provide a safe ear for the Queen to discuss "certain decisions about the monarchy." The royal in-law, who is the mother of Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn, was also the monarch's "go-to for various personal matters," according to a palace insider. With a reputation for being "impartial", Sophie was apparently viewed as a solid "sounding board" on which the Queen could vent her thoughts safely. 

"Sophie has been a firm favorite of the Queen for some time,” royal expert Phil Dampier told Royals Monthly in June. 

Kate Middleton and Prince William lead royals in attendance at the Easter Sunday service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

• Kate Middleton and Prince William and the Cambridge children were pictured in attendance at an Easter mass.
• The royal couple was joined by a number of other members of the Royal Family at this Windsor service.
• In other royal news, Prince Charles' emotional Easter message pays tribute to Prince Philip.

Members of the Royal Family joined for mass at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle on Sunday, April 17, 2022.

Prince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge were joined by their two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte for the celebration of this Christian holiday. 

The royal children were dressed in matching outfits with their parents and the whole family wore shades of blue as they celebrated this service.

The Cambridge family was not alone at this event and many other royals also joined to celebrate this holiday. 

Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex were joined by their children James, Viscount Severn, and Lady Louise Windsor. Countess Sophie and Lady Louise both wore long floral dresses and paired their outfits with small hats. 

Princess Eugenie was also in attendance at this event and seemed to be attending this mass without her son August or husband Jack Brooksbank.

Instead, the Princess was photographed with her cousin Peter Phillips and his daughters Isla and Savannah. Eugenie was photographed wearing a hatband which has become one of Kate Middleton's go-to hair accessories and has often been worn by members of the Royal Family at royal engagements.

Zara Tindall was also in attendance and was joined by her husband Mike Tindall and their eldest daughter Mia. The Tindall's also seemed to match their outfits as a family as they all wore various shades of navy and blue. 

Sadly the Queen was not in attendance at this event. After missing the Maundy Thursday service, the Queen was expected to miss Easter Sunday service at Windsor, so her lack of appearance at this service was not a huge shock for royal fans. 

It is thought that the Queen is struggling with ongoing mobility problems and has been avoiding frequent royal engagements in order to save her strength for her upcoming Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Senior female royals wore green to the Duke of Edinburgh's memorial service this morning, as part of a special tribute to the late prince's legacy. 

• The Queen, Duchess Camilla, and Princess Anne have made a heartfelt tribute to Prince Philip at his memorial ceremony in London this morning.
• The royal heavyweights arrived at Westminster Abbey all wearing forest green outfits in honor of the late Duke of Edinburgh's military service. 
• In other royal news, Duchess Camilla and Kate Middleton’s lowkey outfits at Prince Philip’s memorial service will reflect his ‘modest style’.
  

The Queen has arrived at Prince Philip's memorial ceremony in London this morning to pay respects to her late husband, nearly one year on from his death. 

The Duke of Edinburgh, who died aged 99 in Windsor Castle last April, is to be honored with a special Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. The invite-only event is being attended by up to 1800 guests and is expected to last just 45 minutes. 

Dressed in a forest green dress and a matching brimmed hat, the Queen was accompanied by her son, Prince Andrew, as she entered the historic church from a side passage. 

The nature-themed color, which was also worn by Duchess Camilla and Princess Anne, was likely a subtle nod to Prince Philip's military service in the Royal Navy. 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also arrived with their two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, in tow. Kate paired a polka dot black dress with a wide-brimmed black hat for the occasion, while Prince William wore a simple morning suit. 

The Duke is also joined by his cousins, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, along with their respective husbands, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and Jack Brooksbank. Prince Charles, the Queen's eldest son, is also present. 

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex have also come to the service with their two children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn. Prince Harry and Meghan, who stepped back as senior royals in January 2020 and moved to the US, Markle will not be present. 

The Queen's attendance at the event was confirmed by Buckingham Palace this morning, after weeks of speculation over her ability to go. Her Majesty has suffered a bout of physical issues in recent months, with leg stiffness reportedly the latest ailment to strike the 95-year-old. She also caught COVID-19 in February, just a few months after she was hospitalized overnight for 'preliminary investigations'. 

It's understood that the Queen has had a wheelchair-friendly lift fitted at Balmoral Castle and is now using a golf buggy to help her move around the grounds at Windsor Castle. 

A rare letter from the Queen which gushes about her youngest child, Prince Edward, has been unearthed.

• Prince Edward celebrated his 58th birthday last week, and a letter from the Queen to her midwife detailing his early days has been unearthed.
• The letter, which dates back to 1964, reveals her soft spot for the Earl of Wessex.
• This follows royal news that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have had to scrap the first big engagement of their Caribbean tour.

Her Majesty had been monarch for 12 years by the time Edward was born and as an experienced Queen, she had more time to devote to her children. So, previously unheard of in the halls of Buckingham Palace, she integrated Edward into her role rather than leaving him with nannies.

The monarch's direct involvement in Edward’s childhood has made for a close bond and the rare letter from the Queen to her midwife highlights her soft spot for the Earl.

Written from Eastbourne, Sussex, the letter to 'Rowie,' her midwife Helen Rowe, reads, “I am terribly sorry we never got in touch with you before you left London."

“Mabel was ill in bed when you wrote, and I confess I misread your letter in a great hurry and remembered the wrong day you put down, and when I was away at Arundel last week, I suddenly was reminded of your letter and of course it was too late by then!"

“The baby is wonderful — good as gold, trying to sit up and weighing 15 lbs.12! 

“He smiles and giggles at everyone, and makes everyone happy! Charles, I’m thankful to say, is better but very frail as yet.

“I hope we see you when we return in October.”

The Queen's eldest child, Prince Charles was suffering from a bout of pneumonia when Edward was born, having fallen ill during a camping trip.

Edward, his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, and their two children — Lady Louise Windsor, 18, and James, Viscount Severn, 14 — are said to be particularly close with the monarch, having spent a lot of time with her over the past couple of years. 

Lady Louise is 'a lot more fortunate' than her cousins according to her mother Sophie Wessex, who opened up about the close relationship she shares with HRH Queen Elizabeth.

• Lady Louise has a famously close bond with her beloved grandmother.
• Sophie Wessex explains the reasons that their relationship has flourished.
• In other royal news, Kate Middleton ditches royal protocol and breaks huge record in the process!

Although the Wessex Christmas card had royal fans wondering where Lady Louise and her brother are, the whole Wessex clan are believed to have spent Christmas Day with the Queen.

Precious time spent with her Majesty isn't only reserved for special occasions however as her mother Sophie Wessex has revealed that they see the Queen more than a lot of the family members.

The Sun reports that the Countess spoke to Royalty Monthly about their beautiful relationship and why they're lucky to get so much time with the Queen.

Countess Sophie explained, "We're a lot more fortunate because we live so close to the Queen, so when she spends a lot of time at Windsor on the weekends, our children are more fortunate because they can go over and have tea with her on a regular basis." 

Apart from being close to her grandmother, this year saw Lady Louise Windsor become the 'royal family's secret weapon' after she made her TV debut. She might be one of the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren, but she's certainly making her mark with the wider royal family too.

Prince William and Kate Middleton's secret babysitter at Balmoral was revealed to be Lady Louise, who's proving very popular with the next generation of royals. No wonder the 'thoughtful and kind' teenage royal reminds the Queen of herself as a young woman.

Lady Louise's brother James, Viscount Severn, is also likely to be popular with the firm as the Queen's youngest grandchild's has a shocking resemblance to this royal.

The year ahead will see Lady Louise face the challenges of school exams and deciding what she'd like to do when she graduates. Considering the love of carriage driving that she shared with her late grandfather Prince Philip, perhaps she'll spend her well-deserved days off racing around Windsor Castle!

Lady Louise fans are concerned by the Wessex Christmas card as it's hard to ignore the glaring fact that neither she nor her younger brother James, Viscount Severn feature in the festive image.

• Lady Louise fans are concerned as the Wessex family Christmas card features neither her nor her baby brother.
• The young royal has become known as the firm's 'secret weapon' in recent times.
• In other royal news, the Queen misses Sunday church service ahead of Christmas plans.

Lady Louise fans are concerned after noticing the glaring fact that the Wessex family Christmas card features neither her nor her brother James. 

In the year that saw Lady Louise Windsor become the 'royal family's secret weapon', her absence seems highly unusual. 

"Why don't they include their children?" asked one Twitter user. "Did they forget the 2 kids they have?" commented another.

The family's Christmas card instead features Sophie the Countess of Wessex and Prince Edward and was taken outdoors at Forfar Golf Club in Scotland. The photo was taken in June 2021 during a visit to a part of the world which the royal family holds very dear.

Edward is dressed in a Forfar tweed kilt and matching teal socks, with a blue shirt and light brown jacket, while Sophie looks glam as ever in a black floral dress.

As the exclusive golf course is only 90 minutes drive from Balmoral Castle, there's a chance they tied it in with the Queen's favorite summer destination. 

Prince William and Kate Middleton's secret babysitter at Balmoral was revealed to be Lady Louise, who's proving very popular with the next generation of royals. No wonder the 'thoughtful and kind' teenage royal reminds the Queen of herself as a young woman.

Lady Louise's brother James, Viscount Severn, is also likely to be popular with the firm as the Queen's youngest grandchild's has a shocking resemblance to this royal.

However, in light of The Countess of Wessex revealing to The Sunday Times earlier this year that she and Prince Edward were leaving the decision regarding the HRH title to their children—their absence from the card may be another sign that they're steering them away from professional royal life.

The Countess of Wessex said at the time, “We try to educate them with the understanding that they will most likely have to work for a living.”

The Queen's youngest grandchild, James, Viscount Severn, celebrates his birthday today. However, many wonder why the young royal hasn't been awarded the title of Prince.

• The Queen's youngest grandchild James has turned 14 and looks nearly identical to a family member at the same age!
• Unlike some of his other male cousins, the young royal hasn't been given the title of Prince.
• In other royal news, Why the Queen forbids George and Charlotte from sitting with their parents at Christmas lunch

The Queen's youngest grandchild, Lady Louise's baby brother Viscount James, is celebrating his 14th birthday today. 

His big day comes just over a month after his older sister Lady Louise celebrated her 18th birthday. Many say that Lady Louise Windsor became the 'royal family's secret weapon' after she made her TV debut, but not much is known about her younger sibling.

The teen's parents Sophie Wessex and Prince Edward are sure to be proud as punch of their only son, who was born on December 17, 2007, at Frimley Park Hospital. James made history when he was christened in 2008, as the first baby to wear a replica of the original royal christening gown, which dates back to 1841.

Since then, the very same gown has been worn by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Archie Harisson too. Although Prince Charles' sweet gesture that shows Lilibet’s christening could be imminent, it's unclear if she will wear the family christening gown too.

The young royal's full name contains a touching tribute to his grandfather Prince Philip—which seems appropriate as photos of Philip around the same age are nearly identical!

Why isn't James, Viscount Severn a prince?

Despite looking like one, you might wonder why is James Alexander Philip Theo a Viscount, and not a Prince? And why are some of Queen Elizabeth's grandchildren are Princes and Princesses, whereas others haven't got the title? Especially in James' case as, according to a Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917, it's his birthright.

The Letters Patent, according to HELLO!, limited royal titles with the exception that the monarch's grandchildren in the male line are entitled to be not only Prince or Princess but also HRH. This is why Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice enjoy their titles.

However, following the nuptials of Prince Edward and Sophie, the BBC reported that, "In a modernizing touch, the couple's children will not be given the style His or Her Royal Highness, 'but would have courtesy titles as sons or daughters of an earl.'" This is why Lady Louise Windsor will never be able to claim her birthright despite turning 18.

They are, however, entitled to take on HRH when they turn 18. Despite this, their mother Sophie previously told The Sunday Times that she and Prince Edward were leaving the decision to their children. 

The Countess of Wessex said at the time, “We try to educate them with the understanding that they will most likely have to work for a living. 

“That is why we made the decision not to use HRH titles. They have them and can decide to use them after 18, but I think it is very unlikely.”

Lady Louise Windsor might have recently celebrated her 18th birthday, but it seems that the Queen’s granddaughter still won’t be able to claim her royal birthright. 

• Prince Edward’s daughter Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn have both been styled as the children of an Earl since their birth. 
• It’s understood that Lady Louise is technically HRH Princess Louise, but a royal expert has claimed that she will never claim this title despite turning 18.
• This royal news comes as Kate Middleton’s ‘significant placement’ at the Remembrance service proves new position in the royal family. 

Lady Louise Windsor and her brother James, Viscount Severn are the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren and unlike many of their royal cousins have never been styled with HRH Prince or Princess titles. Instead, when Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex married, Buckingham Palace issued a statement declaring their children would be styled as the children of an Earl. However, it was thought that this could all change after Lady Louise celebrated her 18th birthday on November 8th. 

As the granddaughter of the Queen via her son, Lady Louise could become a Princess one day. This is because Letters Patent issued in 1917 which still remain in force today, state that a princely status and the style of Royal Highness, is assigned to all male-line grandchildren of a monarch.

Despite this, royal expert and author Marlene Koenig has claimed that although Lady Louise is now an adult, she's still not in a position to claim her HRH title.

Opening up to Express.co.uk, Marlene shared how neither Lady Louise nor her brother James have been raised with HRH titles. It was this agreement, she revealed, which indicates it’s very unlikely Prince Edward’s children will ever be known by different styles.

She explained, “On the morning of his wedding, Edward was created Earl of Wessex and Viscount Severn. The announcement stated that the Queen decided, and Edward and Sophie agreed, that their children would be styled as children of an Earl."

Marlene continued, “Edward's children were never going to be styled as HRH even though the Letters Patent allows for it. Their children would never be working royals, so there was no need to have the royal style."

And it seems that any decision to claim the use of the HRH styles is something that is entirely beyond Lady Louise or Viscount Severn’s reach, even after turning 18, according to the author and expert.

"James nor Louise have the right to choose at age 18 what title they can use,” Marlene claimed. "It would be the decision of the Queen, and only the Queen."

This comes after Lady Louise and James’ mother Sophie previously told The Sunday Times earlier this year that she and Prince Edward were leaving the decision to their children. 

The Countess of Wessex said at the time, “We try to educate them with the understanding that they will most likely have to work for a living.”

She added, “That is why we made the decision not to use HRH titles. They have them and can decide to use them after 18, but I think it is very unlikely.”

It could be that though the decision of whether or not Lady Louise and her brother would like to use their HRH titles after turning 18 was left up to them, the decision to approve this or give this her blessing remains with Her Majesty. 

And whilst Lady Louise might be styled without an HRH title for the rest of her life, she nevertheless remains a prominent member of the Royal Family and is often suggested to be one of the Queen's favorite grandchildren. 

Sophie Wessex has reportedly revealed that Prince Edward has a particular skill he likes to showcase for their children—and his late father Prince Philip would be proud.  

• The Countess of Wessex is said to have disclosed Prince Edward loves to cook for their family, just as his father did before him.  
• It’s claimed the Earl of Wessex’s preference lies with the barbecue and it goes down a storm with their children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.  
• This royal news comes as the Queen’s criticism at Kate and William's wedding was revealed by a lip reader. 

Sophie Wessex has supposedly shared a heart-warming insight into her life with Prince Edward as she shared he has followed in Prince Philip’s footsteps with one special talent. The Earl and Countess of Wessex have been happily married for 22 years and share two children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn, who are the youngest of the Queen’s grandchildren. The family reside at Bagshot Park in Surrey, though they are known to frequently spend time in Scotland and Norfolk, visiting the Queen as she stays at Balmoral Castle and Sandringham. 

This year the Queen has made her first solo trip to Balmoral since the death of Prince Philip. As in previous years, it’s thought that the Wessexes might well join her during her summer break. 

And if they do, it seems Prince Edward could possibly pay tribute to his late father by showcasing his cooking skills.

As reported by Express.co.uk, Sophie Wessex has previously revealed that her royal husband enjoys cooking, reportedly declaring, “He is very good at barbecues, and the children love those.”

She also went on to praise Prince Edward’s approach to parenthood, explaining, “He takes our son fishing, does a lot of riding with our daughter, he is very engaged as a father."

The Earl of Wessex’s supposed skill with barbecues and spending time in nature is made all the more meaningful given his own father’s love of outdoor cooking. Throughout the Queen’s 73 year marriage to Prince Philip, he showed his prowess on the grill during their relaxing Balmoral summer breaks.

Opening up to Marie Claire, former royal chef Darren McGrady previously claimed that the Duke of Edinburgh would often come and discuss the food options ahead of him taking to the barbecue. 

"Philip would cook out on the grill. He'd come down to the kitchens and discuss what food we'd have: 'Do we have any salmon that any of the family have caught? The Queen's been picking strawberries with Princess Margaret, let's have those for dinner'," Darren explained.

Whilst the Queen and Prince Philip’s grandson Prince Harry referenced the Duke’s expert grilling skills in a heartfelt tribute to the “legend of banter” after his passing in April. 

In his moving statement, Harry declared, “He will be remembered as the longest reigning consort to the Monarch, a decorated serviceman, a Prince and a Duke.

“But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ‘til the end," he continued.   

Prince Edward’s reported skill at barbecuing for his own children, Prince Harry’s cousins, could be seen as a wonderful reflection of his incredible bond with Prince Philip. Just as the Duke of Edinburgh made a name for himself as the “master of the barbecue” in the Royal Family, now Prince Edward seems to be continuing this wonderful tradition.

Prince William and Kate Middleton have taken on a very special babysitter to mind their three children over the summer holidays. 

• Prince William and Kate Middleton have enlisted a close relative to help with childcare duties this summer at Balmoral Castle. 
• The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge make an annual visit to the Queen's country Scottish residence with their three children, George, Charlotte and Louis. 
• In other royal news,  Prince Charles shares rare photo of childhood home with the Queen and Prince Philip.

Prince William and Kate Middleton may have all the resources in the world to pay for top-notch childcare, but when they're looking for a quick break from the kids, sometimes all they need is a little family help. 

The couple has reportedly recruited Lady Louise Windsor, the daughter of the Queen's youngest son, Prince Edward, to entertain their three children during their annual summer vacation at Balmoral Castle. 

Louise "endeared herself to everyone by looking after William and Kate’s children (Charlotte, George, and Louis) when they were up here," a royal insider told French magazine Gala. 

A royal source has revealed that Lady Louise has even taught her young relative, Princess Charlotte, how to draw the bunny rabbits that hop around the Balmoral estate.

"Louise loves drawing and sketching and was very patiently trying to get Charlotte to do pictures of rabbits and deer."

It appears the young royal has an artistic flair and her beloved grandmother is reportedly proud as punch—even allowing her a look at some of the family's other talented artists.

The source added, "Because of her obvious artistic skill, the Queen allowed Louise to look through some of the collection of Queen Victoria’s Highlands sketches which are kept at Balmoral but are rarely dug out these days.”

Lady Louise is lower in the royal line of succession than her cousins but sources suggest that she is the Queen's favorite grandchild and dotes on her young relatives.

"[Louise] seems to have become her favorite grandchild, closely followed by James," continued the insider. James is Louise's younger brother who is formally known as James, Viscount Severn, and is just 13 years old.

Princess Charlotte is Lady Louise's cousin once removed. Louise is aged 17 and is one of the youngest cousins of Prince William.

This means that she is closer in age to her cousin's children; Prince George, aged eight, Princess Charlotte, aged six, and Prince Louis, aged three; than she is to her 39-year-old cousin, Prince William.

The Balmoral estate is filled with a variety of different species and wildlife that are available for the youngsters to draw. This ranges from capercaillies and grouses to highland cows and shetland ponies.

It has been reported that many members of the royal family will be heading to the Aberdeenshire residence again this summer.

Recently, Prince Andrew was spotted at Balmoral with the Queen just hours after a US lawsuit accused him of sexual abuse. His ex-wife Sarah Ferguson also accompanied him to Scotland to stay at the royal residence.

Prince Andrew's daughter Princess Eugenie, her husband Jack Brooksbank, and their son August Brooksbank were also spotted driving to the Balmoral estate after flying from London Heathrow. 

It's unknown which other members of the royal family will be traveling up to Scotland to spend the summer break together.

Lady Louise Windsor could be set to become a royal Princess in a matter of months, as the Queen's granddaughter approaches her eighteenth birthday.

• Lady Louise Windsor is the eldest daughter of Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, though she is not currently referred to as a Princess.
• This could be set to change in the autumn when the Queen’s granddaughter turns eighteen. 
• In other royal news, we share 9 amusing Prince George photos, just because it's his birthday. 

Lady Louise Windsor might be 15th in the royal line of succession, even sitting above the Queen's second child, Princess Anne, but she is not currently entitled to the style of Princess. Lady Louise’s parents Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex are rumored to be the Queen's "favorites" and married in a beautiful ceremony in 1999. When the royal couple tied the knot, the Queen bestowed upon them their current titles as Earl and Countess of Wessex.

A Buckingham Palace statement released at the time also confirmed that their future children would be styled as the children of an Earl, not of a Prince. This meant that both their daughter Lady Louise and son James, Viscount Severn, did not automatically become Princess and Prince when they were born. However, this could all change this autumn, as Lady Louise will celebrate her eighteenth birthday on November 8. 

Although currently styled as the daughter of an Earl, letters patent, issued in 1917 which still remain in force today, state that a princely status and the style of Royal Highness, is assigned to all male-line grandchildren of a monarch.

As the Queen’s daughter via her youngest son Prince Edward, it’s understood that Louise could technically style herself as a Princess after turning eighteen. Her mother, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, however, has previously opened up about her and Prince Edward’s decision to leave this choice up to Louise and James. 

During an interview with The Sunday Times earlier this year, Sophie explained, “We try to educate them with the understanding that they will most likely have to work for a living."

“That is why we made the decision not to use HRH titles,” she continued. "They have them and can decide to use them after 18, but I think it is very unlikely.”

Whilst the Countess of Wessex might consider it “unlikely” that her children will go on to regularly use their princely titles, Lady Louise could technically become HRH Princess Louise, similarly to how her cousins Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are known. 

This comes amid rumors that her uncle Prince Charles and Prince Edward are caught in a “royal rift” over the Duke of Edinburgh title. After Prince Philip passed away at Windsor Castle in April, the title passed to Prince Charles. 

However, ahead of Edward and Sophie’s wedding back in 1999, it was also announced that in addition to becoming Earl of Wessex, Edward would one day take on the Duke of Edinburgh title. Now speculation has arisen after claims were recently made that the title might not be passed on by Prince Charles as expected. 

It is still officially unknown who could receive this prestigious title in the future, whilst Prince Edward's daughter Lady Louise Windsor now reflects on the big decision of whether or not to use her HRH style. 

Prince Charles and Prince Edward are allegedly in a royal rift over the Duke of Edinburgh title which has become available since the death of their father Prince Philip. 

• Prince Edward does not currently have a Dukedom and is titled the Earl of Wessex.
• It is thought that Prince Charles is responsible for his younger brother's lack of Duke title.
• In other royal news, Mike Tindall condemns Wembley violence as 'absolutely ridiculous' after breaking up bloody fight.

When Prince Edward married his wife Sophie, they were given the royal titles, the Earl of Wessex and the Countess of Wessex, respectively. 

However, it was announced ahead of their wedding that in time, Prince Edward would take on the Duke of Edinburgh title after his father passed. 

Since April 2021, when Prince Philip died at the age of 99, Prince Charles has inherited all of his father’s titles, including the Duke of Edinburgh title that was promised to Prince Edward.

A source close to Prince Charles told the Daily Mail, “The Prince [Charles] is the Duke of Edinburgh as it stands, and it is up to him what happens to the title. It will not go to Edward.”

Since his father's death, Prince Edward has spoken about his role as a trustee of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. A post on social media revealed, Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, plays a major role in continuing the legacy of this prestigious award. 

The post revealed, "The Earl plays an active role in the DofE as Chairman of the Trustees of The Duke of Edinburgh International Award, and Trustee of DofE UK."

Despite his active involvement in upholding the legacy of his father's title, some royal sources revealed that Prince Edward will not be getting the royal title for a far more important reason than simple sibling rivalry.

A source close to Prince Charles told the Daily Mail, "'It isn't just about whether Edward becomes Duke of Edinburgh by rite of passage or not, there have been discussions about the whole top tier of the Royal Family."

The source indicated that Prince Charles plans to slim down the royal family and relieve the taxpayer of paying for the upkeep of a large number of royal family members.

If Prince Edward received the Duke of Edinburgh title, this would then pass to his son James, Viscount Severn. 

Although Viscount Severn is only currently 13 years old, he's reportedly being raised to expect a life outside of royal duties. This suggests that Viscount Severn may have no use for the Duke of Edinburgh title and it would be a title with no power or duty attached. 

Some reporters now think that Prince Charles will continue holding the name for now. 

Biographer Hugo Vickers said of the Duke of Edinburgh title, "If it simply gets merged with Charles's, it will never be heard of again."

Officially, it is still unknown what will happen to this title, perhaps in due course it will be handed to another member of the royal family, or perhaps it will be left as an unused title that died with Prince Philip, only time will tell.

The Queen has been given the sweetest nickname by her eldest grandchild, Lady Louise Windsor.

• The Queen has eight grandchildren, but has a particularly close relationship with Lady Louise.
• It's clear they have a lovely relationship, as Louise has a nickname for her grandma.
• In other royal news, David Attenborough has revealed his 'charming' conversation with Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

What does the Queen get called by Lady Louise?

All of the Queen’s grandchildren have special nicknames for their grandma.

And Louise, 16, reportedly calls her grandmother "grandmama".

The Queen and Louse are said to have a special bond because she has inherited the monarch's love of horses and is a keen rider.

Lady Louise and her brother James, Viscount Severn - whose parents are Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, do not currently take part in royal engagements.

They also do not use HRH titles; this was decided by their parents, agreed with the Queen, and announced shortly after the birth of Lady Louise.

Their mother, Sophie, has spoken about the children's relationship with their grandmother.

She told the Sunday Times: "I guess not everyone's grandparents live in a castle, but where you are going is not the important part, or who they are.

"When they are with the Queen, she is their grandmother."

Sophie has also previously shared the adorable moment Lady Louise realised who her grandma was.

She told the BBC: "It happened a little while ago. It was much more of a shock to the system.

"It was only when she was coming home from school and saying, 'Mummy, people keep on telling me that grandma is the queen,'

"And I asked her, 'Yes, how does that make you feel?' And she said, 'I don't understand.'"

Sophie added: "I don't think she has grasped that perhaps there was only one queen."

Sophie, Countess of Wessex, and Prince Edward’s son James could undergo an important royal status change in the coming years.

• James, Viscount Severn, could be the next Earl of Wessex
• Prince Edward is likely to one day inherit his father’s Duke of Edinburgh title and then his son could have his royal status changed
• It follows royal news that Duchess Catherine faces huge pressure as she's hailed a 'royal saviour'

Prince Edward and Countess Sophie’s son, James, could become the next Earl of Wessex when his father inherits the Duke of Edinburgh title.

James, 12, is currently Viscount Severn. And while his older sister, Lady Louise Windsor, 16, will never inherit a royal title, James could be in the running for a huge royal shift.

Prince Edward is the youngest of Queen Elizabeth II’s sons and, as per tradition, was gifted a secondary royal title after his wedding to Sophie back in 1999.

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While it’s usually tradition for sons and grandsons of the Queen to be made Dukes, Edward and Sophie became the Earl and Countess of Wessex, with the understanding that Edward will one day inherit his father’s Duke of Edinburgh title.

Which would have a knock-on effect on 12-year-old James, according to etiquette experts Debrett's.

"Viscount Severn is a subsidiary title of his father the Earl of Wessex and is therefore used as a courtesy title,” they explained.

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"It may be assumed that he will succeed to the title Earl of Wessex as and when his father becomes Duke of Edinburgh."

And Viscount James is not the only one that could be affected by the title change, as Sophie is said to be making “subtle” changes ahead of becoming the Duchess of Edinburgh.

Gareth O’Rourke – director of fashion buying at CHO clothing – told Express.co.uk that her “elegant yet simple fashion sense” has evolved in recent times, which could be a sign of her paving her way into a bigger role within the family.

“She is known to be extremely hard working in her role to support the Queen and her involvement in various charity work,” Gareth explained.

“Her bold outfits could suggest her newly added responsibility within the Royal Family.

“It also suggests the importance of her appealing to a wider audience now that she is in line to become the Duchess of Edinburgh.”