The Prince and Princess of Wales have released footage of a fearless Prince Louis in a wetsuit, jumping into the sea and playing on the beach during a family holiday in Cornwall, to celebrate his eighth birthday.
Birthday Celebrations
The video, captured by photographer Matt Porteous during the Waleses' Easter break, shows the daring youngster launching himself into the water from a height, digging in the sand with a spade, playing cricket, and running along the beach. It was posted on the Kensington Palace Instagram account with the message: "Thank you for all the birthday wishes for Prince Louis. 8 is great!"
Earlier on Thursday, the prince and princess released a new photo of Louis onboard a boat, also taken during their time in the South West. A grinning Louis is shown leaning with his arms folded against the vessel's metal barrier, with the sea in the background. William and Kate's youngest child, known for his cheeky nature, wore a blue textured quarter-zip jumper. The post on the Waleses' social media read: "Happy birthday, Louis! 8 today!" followed by a red balloon emoji. The picture was also taken by Porteous, whom the Waleses often turn to for family occasions.
Royal Connections to the Sea
It is not known which beach the royals visited, but William inherited the vast Duchy of Cornwall landed estate and the title Duke of Cornwall when he became heir to the throne in 2022. Louis was last seen at church with the rest of the royal family on Easter Sunday. A love of the water runs in the family. William used to surf while studying at St Andrews, while Kate is a fan of cold water swimming. Louis's great-grandfather, the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was known for his naval service and became Admiral of the Fleet. Louis's grandfather, the King, also served in the Navy as the Prince of Wales, commanding HMS Bronington, and Louis's namesake, Earl Mountbatten, became the First Sea Lord.
