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Sophie will spend the milestone day with her husband Prince Edward and their three dogs - a cocker spaniel called Mole and two black labradors, Teal and Teasel.

Her children, Lady Louise Windsor, 21, and James, Earl of Wessex, 17, will send birthday wishes from their respective studies at St Andrews University and boarding school in Oxfordshire.

The duchess has cemented her position as one of the monarchy's most reliable members, ranking as the fourth-hardest-working royal in 2024.

She completed 257 official engagements at home and abroad last year, following only Princess Anne, King Charles, and Prince Edward in the royal engagement tally.

Long considered one of the monarchy's "safest pair of hands", Sophie earned particular admiration from the late Queen Elizabeth II for her loyalty and unflashy approach to royal life.

Despite her dedicated service, sources suggest the duchess has faced challenges in gaining public recognition, particularly when compared to other royal figures.

A source close to the Royal Family told The Times: "Sophie and Edward were overshadowed because bigger stars in the family came along, and I think at times she did mind that."

However, the source noted her practical outlook: "But she was always pragmatic about their place in the hierarchy, unlike some others in the family."

The King and Queen have increasingly recognised the vital role played by Sophie and Edward, with the source adding: "Sophie is a proper asset."

Beyond the customary social media acknowledgements, Sophie's 60th birthday celebrations will remain characteristically low-key.

Her daughter Lady Louise is currently in her third year studying English at St Andrews University.

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Meanwhile, her son James, Earl of Wessex, is preparing for his A-level examinations next summer at his Oxfordshire boarding school.

The modest approach to her milestone birthday reflects Sophie's enduring commitment to an understated royal role, continuing her more than 25-year service to the monarchy.

Sophie's steady presence has proven particularly valuable as the monarchy navigates recent challenges.

She has come to embody the "keep calm and carry on" mantra at a time when the institution faces family feuds and health concerns.

Her reliable approach has been especially crucial following King Charles and the Princess of Wales's cancer diagnoses and the ongoing controversy surrounding the Duke of York.