Duke of Kent Celebrates 89th Birthday at Kensington Palace
- The Duke of Kent celebrated his 89th birthday on October 8, 2024, at Kensington Palace with family.
- His wife, the Duchess of Kent, made a rare appearance in a wheelchair, marking her first public engagement with him since 2018.
- The event featured a bagpipe performance, showcasing the Duke's continued involvement in royal duties despite his age.
The Duke of Kent celebrated his 89th birthday at his home in Kensington Palace, England, surrounded by family and friends. His wife, the Duchess of Kent, made a rare public appearance, seated in a wheelchair, marking a significant moment as she had not attended major royal events in recent years. The celebration featured a performance by pipers from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, who played traditional tunes including 'Happy Birthday.' The Duke, who has been a prominent figure in royal engagements despite his frailty, expressed gratitude to the pipers after their performance. His role as a senior royal includes being the deputy colonel-in-chief of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and serving as the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England. The Duchess, who stepped back from royal duties in 1996, has focused on music education and made her first public appearance with the Duke since 2018 earlier this year. This birthday celebration highlights the Duke's ongoing commitment to royal duties and the enduring presence of the Duchess in his life, despite her limited public engagements.