Royal birthday gift from older brother: Prince Edward now bears the title last held by his father, Prince Philip. Edward’s wife Sophie is now the Duchess of Edinburgh.
For his 59th birthday, the British King Charles III. (74) made his youngest brother Edward Duke of Edinburgh. This was announced by Buckingham Palace in London on Friday. The title was last held by the father of the two royals, Prince Philip. He wore it from his marriage to the future Queen Elizabeth II in 1947 until his death in 2021.
“His Majesty is pleased to transfer the Duchy of Edinburgh to Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Forfar, on the occasion of His Royal Highness’ 59th birthday,” the statement read. Edward could keep the title for life.
Edward’s wife Sophie (58), previously known as the Countess of Wessex, can now call herself Duchess of Edinburgh, according to the announcement. The two are “proud to build on Prince Philip’s legacy of advancing opportunities so that young people can reach their full potential,” it said.
The royal family’s Twitter account also read happy birthday wishes with a new caption: “Wishing the Duke of Edinburgh a happy birthday today!” The palace also posted a photo of a beaming Prince Edward.
Source: Stern
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