Prince Louis has starred in a brand new photo to mark his birthday and there’s a surprising twist in this latest portrait.
Louis, who is 8 on April 23, was snapped by the water to celebrate the event.
The prince, who is fourth in line to the throne, is dressed casually in a maritime style sweater as he poses for the photograph.
And the background had echoes of his family’s naval past – his great grandfather, Prince Philip, was in the Royal Navy and saw active service during World War Two.
However, it’s another relative that is called to mind in this image.
Louis has always born a strong resemblance to his maternal grandfather, Michael Middleton, but the likeness is even more pronounced in this new photo.
The image, taken by Matt Porteous, was shared on social media with the message ”Happy Birthday, Louis! 8 today!’
The photo was taken as Louis enjoyed a break in Cornwall with his family earlier this year. His dad, Prince William, is the Duke of Cornwall.
There will be a private celebration for Louis with his family. However, the young prince, like many 8 year olds, is spending his birthday at school. He’s currently a student at Lambrook Primary alongside his siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
George, who turns 13 in a few months’ time, will leave Lambrook this summer for secondary school with Eton and Marlborough among the favourites for his next educational step.
Louis Arthur Charles was born on April 23rd 2018 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Paddington and made his debut just hours later when his parents took him home.
William and Kate posed for photos with their newborn before heading back to Kensington Palace. The first official photos of Louis appeared a few days’ later where he was seen being cuddled by his big sister, Charlotte.
The most recent public appearance of Louis was at Easter when he joined his mum and dad, the Prince and Princess of Wales, at the morning service at St.George’s Chapel, Windsor.
And there was a special moment for the youngster as he met up with his other granddad, King Charles. The two have always shared a close bond and as The King walked into the chapel, he reached out to pat his grandson on the shoulder.
