The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, showcased his distinctive approach to royal duties during a recent visit to Peterborough, where he met with young individuals pursuing their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award. This outing highlighted not only his commitment to youth engagement but also his inherited sense of humor, reminiscent of his late father, Prince Philip.
Celebrating his 60th birthday this past March, Edward was bestowed with the title of Duke of Edinburgh, a designation that will not pass down to his son, James, Earl of Wessex. Upon Edward's passing, the title will revert to the Crown, just as it did after Prince Philip's death. This unique aspect of the title underscores its non-hereditary nature, a fact that has been clearly communicated by Buckingham Palace.
During his visit to Boxing Futures, a charity utilizing boxing training to support disadvantaged youth, Edward made light-hearted remarks that drew laughter from attendees. He quipped, “I will try and make this look as slick and professional as possible,” demonstrating his ability to connect with the young people present. His playful demeanor was further illustrated when he expressed caution about unveiling a plaque, humorously stating, “Oh yes, there is something, I've got to be very careful how I do this, but there is a plaque which I'm hoping you'll find somewhere to seal because it won't last here very long.”
This visit followed a ski break at the Swiss resort of St. Moritz with his family during the February half-term. Edward and his wife, Sophie, have often attributed their successful 25-year marriage to their friendship. They shared this insight during an official visit to Nepal earlier in February, emphasizing the importance of companionship in their relationship.
As he engaged with the young people, Edward remarked, “It's not about me, it's about the work that you do,” reflecting his dedication to supporting youth initiatives. His light-hearted approach continued as he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of travel, stating, “There's always got to be humour. Especially when you're travelling, and you’ve got no idea what's about to happen. You’ve got to laugh.”
Edward appears to embody the spirit and charm of Prince Philip, who once humorously declared himself “the world's most experienced plaque unveiler.” This legacy of wit and warmth continues to resonate through Edward’s engagements.
