James, Viscount Severn, is the 13-year-old son of Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex. He is the youngest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II and 12th in line to the throne. James is said to be the Queen’s favourite grandson, according to an inside source.
Edward and Sophie, both 56, are expected to have a more prominent role in royal engagements following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step back from duties.
This could mean an elevated role for James and his sister Lady Louise Windsor, 17, who is said to be “diligent and ready to work”.
James, who was born in Surrey in 2007, made an official appearance in September as part of the Great British Beach Clean at Southsea Beach, in support of the Marine Conservation Society.
His title, Viscount Severn, refers to his Welsh roots via the River Severn. But when Edward and Sophie married, Buckingham Palace said the children would be titled as children of an earl instead of a prince.
They said: “Louise has come out of nowhere and proven herself mature, diligent and ready to work – it rather reminds the Queen of her daughter Princess Anne, who’s all about duty.
“Apparently since Edward and [his wife] Sophie have had to take on more since Harry and Meghan departed, and Andrew was removed, their daughter has been inspired to step up and help alongside her parents.”
This has led to speculation that younger brother James will follow her lead.
However, he is likely to drop down the pecking order when Princess Eugenie’s first child is born, making him the 13th in line to the throne.
spoke to a source about Edward’s children.
They said: “The Queen loves the fact that Louise and James relish their time at Balmoral, and she has become particularly close to Louise, who seems to have become her favourite grandchild, closely followed by James.”
