King Charles announces Prince Edward's new Duke of Edinburgh title

King Charles has presented his youngest brother Prince Edward with a special birthday present. The royal was officially given the Duke of Edinburgh title on his 59th birthday. The title was last held by their father Prince Philip, who was known as the Duke of Edinburgh from 1947 until he passed away in 2021.

The late Queen Elizabeth, who died last year, held the title of Duchess of Edinburgh before she took the throne in 1952. Prince Edward's wife Sophie, formerly Countess of Wessex, will now be known as the Duchess of Edinburgh.

In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Prince Edward and Sophie were said to be “proud” of their new titles.

“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 press release read.

Edward and Sophie’s oldest son James, 15, has now taken his father’s previous title as Earl of Wessex.

RELATED:

• Royals a no-show at Harry and Meghan's daughter, Princess Lilibet's, christening

• Charles and William won't apologise to Harry before coronation: 'Stalemate'

• Prince Harry and Meghan roasted in savage South Park takedown

It is believed that Prince Philip’s wish was for his title to go to Edward after his death, but the decision still lay in King Charles’ hands.

Royal fans were delighted by the good news, with many taking to social media to share their excitement.

“At last! I am delighted for them. They absolutely deserve this honour,” one person wrote.

“Perfect timing by the King to bestow this on his brother’s birthday,” another added.

“So well deserved. Not least for the outstanding work he’s done for years on his father’s great legacy, the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Wonderfully well deserved for his fabulous wife too. Both an absolute credit to the UK,” a third chimed in.

“I am amazed how emotional this has made me. Fantastic news and congratulations to the new Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh,” another remarked.

Prince Edward and Sophie visit Edinburgh

Shortly after the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh received their new titles, they visited Edinburgh in Scotland to meet members of the city’s Ukrainian community.

The event was held at Edinburgh’s City Chambers and allowed the royals to mingle with the community, some who had moved to the city after fleeing conflict in Ukraine.

Addressing the crowd, Edward thanked everybody for “welcoming” the couple to Edinburgh.

“I also want to express my thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to make our Ukraine friends feel so very welcome,” he said.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.