Why Princess Beatrice won't be made senior royal by Prince William, former butler claims

As Princess Beatrice celebrates her 37th birthday today, August 8, a former royal butler has shed light on why, despite her growing popularity and increasing role within the Royal Family, she is unlikely to ascend to the status of a senior working royal during Prince William's reign.

Grant Harrold, who served Prince Charles at Highgrove from 2004 to 2011, suggests that while the monarch is expected to make a heartfelt gesture for his niece's birthday, her position within the monarchy is not expected to undergo any significant changes.

Speaking on behalf ofFruity King, Harrold highlighted that Princess Beatrice is highly respected by the entire Royal Family, particularly by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

"The King will be eager to celebrate Princess Beatrice," he revealed.

"King Charles and Queen Camilla remain close to both Beatrice and Eugenie. Beatrice is well-liked across the Royal Family and often steps in to support. While the celebrations may be a private affair, a celebration is expected, reflecting her quiet but valued presence within the Firm."

Despite not being a full-time working royal, Beatrice has assumed more responsibilities over the years and continues to lend her support when needed - all while maintaining a separate career as a strategist at the tech firm Afiniti.

Her capacity to juggle royal obligations alongside her professional career has prompted some observers to label her a "secret weapon" for the Firm.

Nevertheless, Harrold reckons that Prince William will hold back from bestowing upon her a more formal royal position for two key reasons.

"Beatrice has her own career, so I don't see William making her a senior member of the working royals," he explained.

"They pull ranks when they need the support, and she's been known to step up. But she has a job and does her own thing. She's still a valued member of the family."

Harrold also commended Beatrice for her tactful handling of royal tensions - particularly between Prince William and Prince Harry.

"She gets on with William, as well as Harry," Harrold added.

"I think she's been very diplomatic with the brothers and their feud. She'll have been careful to maintain a relationship with both."

Regarding her birthday, Harrold expects a low-key but heartfelt celebration.

"I don't see any big celebrations, as it's not a major birthday," he said.

"I think Beatrice will opt for a quiet, private affair, with best wishes from the whole family and a thoughtful gift from King Charles. He doesn't tend to give money, so I imagine he'd give Beatrice a piece of jewellery."