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New Photo Of Prince George Released Just In Time For His Second Birthday - As His Party Plans Are Revealed

The prince is celebrating with a low-key do in Norfolk

Kensington Palace has shared a new photo of Prince George, just ahead of his second birthday tomorrow.

It’s a snapshot from the same series of pics that photographer Mario Testino took in celebration of Princess Charlotte’s christening, in the gardens at Sandringham Palace earlier this month.

In the photo, Prince William is holding Prince George as the latter grins at the camera. It was probably taken just moments before or after the previously released black and white snapshot of the duo.

What a big grin from our little prince! [Mario Testino/PA Wire]
What a big grin from our little prince! [Mario Testino/PA Wire]

It’s lovely to see the father/son duo photographed looking so happy and natural for once – instead of the posed snapshots of the pair that the palace has often chosen to share with members of the public.

A spokesman for Kensington Palace said: "This photograph captures a very happy moment on what was a special day for The Duke and Duchess and their family. They are very pleased to share this picture as they celebrate Prince George's second birthday."

Happy Birthday Prince George! [Getty]
Happy Birthday Prince George! [Getty]

The photo’s been released on the same day that news about the little prince’s birthday plans have been revealed. It seems like yesterday that we were stood outside the Lindo Wing at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, waiting for Kate Middleton to give birth to her first child.

Prince George arrived, weighing a healthy 8lb 6oz after a ‘textbook’ delivery, and has spent the last couple of years winning over the hearts of the nation with his chubby cheeks and obsession with knitted cardigans (or should we say Kate’s obsession?).

George's birthday is set to be a modest affair this year. [Getty]
George's birthday is set to be a modest affair this year. [Getty]



And now the little prince is about to celebrate his second birthday with what’s reportedly set to be a ‘modest’ affair. The third in line to the throne is set to spend his big day at his parent’s lavish 10-bedroom country manor, Amner Hall, but if reports are to be believed it won’t be anywhere near as grand as his first birthday.

Last year, he had a big blow out at Kensington Palace where the Irish Guards serenaded him with a rendition of Happy Birthday. And he also had a Peter Rabbit themed party at his maternal grandparents house.

The Duchess of Cambridge is said to have planned everything herself (perhaps with some help from the Middletons party supplies business) and most of her family are thought to be planning on attending, as well as friends and godparents.

Prince WiIlls' work may mean he misses the celebrations. [Twitter/Kensington Palace]
Prince WiIlls' work may mean he misses the celebrations. [Twitter/Kensington Palace]



But the Queen won’t be popping in, like she did last year when she graced her great-grandson with 50 minutes of her time. Prince Charles and Camilla won’t be able to join the celebrations either as they’re on an official visit to the West Country, but they plan to visit at the end of the week to spend time with both of their grandchildren.

But saddest of all, Wills may not be able to see his son blow out his candles as his new job as an air ambulance pilot may keep him away from home tomorrow, reports The Telegraph. However this year George will of course have his little sister, Charlotte, ready to join in the fun. Well, as much as a two-month-old baby can.

The Duchess of Cambridge is thought to have organised the party. [Getty]
The Duchess of Cambridge is thought to have organised the party. [Getty]



Last year, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge asked well-wishes to refrain from sending their son presents as they didn’t want him to receive mountains of gifts, so they’ll probably have done the same this year too.

They did, however, release a series of photos of George at the National History Museum in London, so here's hoping they do the same tomorrow.

Prince George's first birthday was marked with a series of photos. [PA]
Prince George's first birthday was marked with a series of photos. [PA]



[Prince William Gushes Over “Little Monkey” George And “Joy Of Heaven” Charlotte – And Praises Kate’s Mothering Skills]

[New Mummy Blog: Children’s Birthday Parties Are Getting Out Of Control]