Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s son James Wessex appeared to have received a surprising nod from the Palace just a day after taking his father’s place at Royal Ascot last week.
St James’s Palace had shared an update on June 20 about an engagement the Duke of Edinburgh was set to undertake. However, it appears that Edward was replaced by his son in the advertisement.
“The Earl of Wessex, Colonel of the Scots Guards, attended the regimental muster this morning at Somme Barracks, Catterick Garrison, and was received by Brigadier David Madden (Deputy Lieutenant North Yorkshire).”
Royal observers were quick to point out the error, as the publication is known for its near-perfect accuracy. The ceremonial position of colonel in the Scots Guards, which belongs to Prince Edward and not his 18-year-old son, who now holds the title of Earl of Wessex.
“A rare error in the court circular issued by Buckingham Palace,” noted royal expert Richard Eden. “It is the Duke of Edinburgh, not his son, the Earl of Wessex, the colonel of the Scots Guards.”
One fan responded that this wasn’t the first time it happened.
“We have seen spelling errors in publicly presented messages from Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, on 2 occasions. Standard everywhere.”
Prince Edward had been at the annual meeting at Somme Barracks over the weekend. The event is a highlight for both serving and veteran Scots Guards to come together and celebrate the regiment’s history.
