Michael Middleton, Princess Kate's father, celebrated his 76th birthday today, just days after his wife, Carole, appeared at Ascot without him.
The father-of-three's birthday comes closely after his son-in-law, Prince William, marked his 43rd birthday on Saturday. Carole and Michael also celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on Saturday.
Carole, 70, attended Royal Ascot on June 18, where she was photographed with her daughter-in-law, Alizee Thevenet.
Michael, a former British Airways flight dispatcher, has long served as a steadfast presence in the lives of his three children - Kate, Pippa and James.
Michael Middleton quietly celebrates just days after Carole Middleton pictured alone at Ascot.
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Known for his quiet support and dedication to family, Michael has been instrumental in shaping the values that guide his children today.
His son James recently reflected on their upbringing, telling The Times: "The thing my parents taught us all to be was honest. Being grounded and being honest was something instilled in us right from the start."
Michael has played a pivotal role in his daughters' most significant moments, proudly walking both Kate and Pippa down the aisle on their wedding days.
His presence at these milestone occasions underscored the close bond he shares with his children.
Carole Middleton and Michael Middleton both live in Bucklebury, near their three children.
PAThe 76-year-old's support extends beyond ceremonial duties, as he has remained a constant figure throughout their lives.
His dedication to family was evident when he appeared alongside his wife Carole in footage released by Kate last September, as she announced the completion of her cancer treatment.
The couple's united front demonstrated their unwavering support during challenging times for the Royal Family.
Michael's relationship with his royal grandchildren remains particularly close, as evidenced by a touching gesture from Prince Louis at last December's Together at Christmas concert.
Alizee Thevenet and Carole Middleton pictured at Ascot.
PA
The young prince left a note on the Kindness Tree outside Westminster Abbey that read: "Thank you to granny and grandpa because they have played games with me."
This heartfelt message highlighted the active role Michael and Carole play in their grandchildren's lives.
The couple, who recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary, continue to reside in Bucklebury, Berkshire, maintaining close proximity to their youngest children, Pippa and James.
Their enduring presence provides stability and support for the extended family.
Prince William was comforted by Carole Middleton in the stands at Royal Ascot.
PA
Michael shares his children's passion for sport, particularly tennis and rugby, though his enthusiasm once led to an embarrassing moment.
During a 2017 BBC documentary, Kate recalled walking past Tim Henman with her father, who mistakenly greeted the tennis star as "Pete" after watching Sampras play. "My dad said very coolly, 'Hi Pete'. I was mortified!" she told broadcaster Sue Barker.
Before his business ventures, Michael worked as a flight dispatcher for British Airways.
He later joined his wife, Carole, in running Party Pieces, the party accessories company she founded in 1987, which they sold to entrepreneur James Sinclair in 2023 after it entered administration.
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