Prince Louis celebrates his eighth birthday today, with the Prince and Princess of Wales marking the occasion by releasing a new portrait of their youngest child.
The image, captured by photographer Matt Porteous in Cornwall earlier this month, accompanies a message from the couple reading: "Happy birthday, Louis! 8 today!"
The young royal, born on April 23 2018, at the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, has become a firm favourite with the British public through his endearing and mischievous behaviour at official events over the years.
Despite the special family occasion, the Prince of Wales has royal duties to fulfil today.
Prince Louis celebrates his eighth birthday today, with the Prince and Princess of Wales marking the occasion by releasing a new portrait of their youngest child.
|Kensington Palace
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William is set to spend several hours in Oxfordshire visiting the British Formula E team's base, where he will explore Jaguar TCS Racing's work on electric vehicles and sustainable technology.
The timing works in the family's favour, however, as Louis returns to Lambrook School following the Easter break.
With the young prince occupied with lessons for much of the day, his father's absence during working hours should prove less disruptive to any birthday festivities planned for later.
The Wales family is expected to gather at their Windsor residence, Forest Lodge, once the school day concludes.
The Wales family is expected to gather at their Windsor residence, Forest Lodge, once the school day concludes.
|GETTY
There, Louis will be joined by his mother, Catherine and his older siblings for what promises to be an intimate celebration.
Prince George, 12, and Princess Charlotte, aged 10, will help their younger brother mark the occasion at the family home.
This arrangement reflects the balancing act royal parents must navigate between public duties and private family moments, particularly on significant dates such as birthdays.
Louis has captured hearts nationwide through his appearances at royal occasions, most memorably during the late Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022, where his animated reactions delighted onlookers.
His most recent public outing came at this month's Easter service, where he donned a double-breasted suit and matched his sister's waves to well-wishers.
|GETTY
His most recent public outing came at this month's Easter service, where he donned a double-breasted suit and matched his sister's waves to well-wishers.
Following the hour-long service, he demonstrated impeccable manners with a handshake for the Dean of Windsor, Christopher Cocksworth.
The birthday portrait continues a family tradition of releasing annual photographs for each child's special day. Last year's image, shot by Josh Shinner, showed Louis grinning amid bluebells.
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