Kate Middleton makes emotional public tribute to Prince William on his 42nd birthday
Kate Middleton has publicly wished her husband Prince William a happy birthday today (Friday, 21 June) as he celebrates turning 42.
The Princess of Wales posted a photograph taken last month in Norfolk of William with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis jumping high above some sand dunes. In the touching caption, she wrote: "Happy birthday Papa, we all love you so much! Cx"
The Prince of Wales is believed to be back at the family home now following his trip to Germany this week to watch England in their second Euros group match against Wembley on Thursday night. The royal, who is president of the FA, was seen enjoying the match - despite the disappointing 1-1 score - alongside Denmark's King Frederick and his daughter Princess Josephine, 13.
Kate, also 42, is a keen photographer and has behind behind the lens of some of the family's most treasured snaps. In her latest posting, the family can be seen dressed casually, with William wearing a navy blue hooded jumper, and the kids dressed similarly in T-shirts and shorts.
Fans and royal watchers were thrilled with the post, with one Instagram commenter saying it was "Possibly the best pic they have ever shared- so relaxed, normal, full of joy", and another writing: "This has to be one of our favourite photos!".
William's birthday comes after what has been a very busy time for family, not least because both Kate and her father-in-law, King Charles III are receiving treatment for cancer.
The family also celebrated King Charles' official birthday at last weekend's Trooping the Colour, during which Kate made her first major official appearance since announcing her health condition in March.
The mum of three was dressed impeccably in a monochrome outfit with large disc-style fascinator. But despite William's equally grand attire, it was six-year-old Prince Louis who stole the show yet again. Known for his sometimes hilarious antics at official engagements, the young royal was spotted showing off his dance moves and pretending to fall asleep at one point.
Kate's birthday post is also believed to be the first photograph she's posted since admitting that a special Mother's Day picture released by Kensington Palace had been edited.
The photo, which featured Kate with her children, was released on 10 March but within a day, various photo agencies issued "kill notices", indicating it was being removed from their archived.
The Princess of Wales later apologised for the "confusion" surrounding the image, and said: "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing.
"I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C"
