King Charles grants his brother Prince Edward the title of Duke of Edinburgh

Prince Edward's wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, will become the Duchess of Edinburgh.

The Royal Family said in a statement: "His Majesty The King has been pleased to confer the Dukedom of Edinburgh upon The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Forfar, on the occasion of His Royal Highness’s 59th birthday.

"The title will be held by Prince Edward for His Royal Highness’s lifetime.

"The Dukedom was last created for Prince Philip in 1947, upon his marriage to Princess Elizabeth, who held the title of Duchess of Edinburgh before acceding to the throne in 1952.

"The new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are proud to continue Prince Philip’s legacy of promoting opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to reach their full potential."

The Dukedom has previously been created four times for members of the Royal Family.

Prince Frederick, eldest son of King George II became the first Duke of Edinburgh in 1726.

Prince William, brother of King George III, held the title as part of the joint title, The Duke of Gloucester and Edinburgh in 1764.

Prince Alfred, second son of Queen Victoria became the third royal to hold the title in 1866.

King Charles and Prince Edward's father Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth II was made Duke of Edinburgh in 1947.

Queen Elizabeth II's husband held the Duke of Edinburgh title for over 73 years.

Prince Philip died in April 2021 at the age of 99.