Princess Charlotte ‘s ninth birthday marked by picture release

Charlotte’s big day comes as the Waleses navigate Kate’s cancer treatment.

Princess Charlotte’s ninth birthday has been marked by the release of a picture showing the young royal smiling.

The Prince and Princess of Wales’ daughter has been pictured casually posing outside next to a clematis plant with pink petals, in the image taken by Kate.

Charlotte’s big day comes as the Wales family navigate Kate’s cancer treatment, with the princess away from official duties since the start of the year.

The photograph was posted on the royal couple’s official X account, formerly known as Twitter, with the words “Happy 9th Birthday, Princess Charlotte!” and a cake emoji.

It also said: “Thank you for all the kind messages today.”