King Charles grants Prince Edward Duke of Edinburgh title - BBC

Prince Edward has been named as the new Duke of Edinburgh, Buckingham Palace has announced.

The title, granted by King Charles III on the prince's 59th birthday, will be held for his lifetime.

The former Duke of Edinburgh was Prince Philip, who died on 9 April 2021, and who was given the title on the morning of his wedding to Princess Elizabeth, who later became Queen Elizabeth II.

The new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, will be in Edinburgh later.

The couple are expected to attend an event in the Scottish capital on Friday marking the first year of conflict in Ukraine.

Prince Edward becomes the Duke of Edinburgh almost two years after the death of his father, Philip, who held the title for more than 70 years.

It was understood that Philip had wanted Edward, his youngest son, to take on the title, but the decision was made by King Charles.

It means that Edward will attend the coronation in May as a duke, with a title that was synonymous with his late father.

Buckingham Palace 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 title remains associated with the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme, which has been running activities, training and challenges for young people since 1956.

The title of Earl of Wessex has now been given to Edward and Sophie's son, the 15-year-old Viscount Severn.