Sophie’s choice THE QUEEN’S SAVING GRACE

For almost 20 years, Prince Edward’s wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, has quietly and confidently devoted her life to the royal family, dutifully carrying out engagements for the Queen at home and abroad while raising her children away from the harsh glare of the public eye.

But now, with senior royal numbers dwindling, the 55-year-old is set to take a starring role – and no-one is happier than the Queen herself, who has always had a soft spot for her youngest son’s wife.