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Inside Duchess Sophie's royal life as she turns 59 - from 'perfect bridge' to 'sister'

EXCLUSIVE: As the Duchess of Edinburgh celebrates her 59th birthday, learn why a leading royal expert has called her "the perfect bridge between the generations"

And while she’s shot up in status as well as the public’s affections, the woman some call King Charles’ ‘secret weapon’ plays another vital, connecting role as the perfect bridge between royal generations. The Duchess of Edinburgh is a very popular member of the family (Image: PA) Read MoreRelated Articles Meghan fallout saw Kate look overseas to ease ‘lonely’ royal life In the run up to her special day, Sophie had a busy week of engagements which started on Tuesday with a visit to the Katherine Low Settlement in Battersea, South-West London - a popular charity which has been supporting vulnerable locals for 100 years.

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