Despite being one of the most senior members of the Royal Family, very little is known about what Prince Edward is really like away from his official duties. In recent months, it has become more obvious than ever just how essential Edward - who marked his 62nd birthday earlier this week - is to King Charles and the rest of the Firm.

While he ably supports over 70 patronages and continues his late father's work with the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards Scheme, it is rare to hear him share a personal opinion. However, one leading royal author who has known the Duke for many years has revealed exactly what he is like when he is not unveiling plaques or handing out awards.

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Express, Editor-in-Chief of Majesty Magazine and author of Prince Edward: A Biography, Ingrid Seward said: "He is a good person and an interesting mix of the Queen's shyness (as seen in the way he talks at people rather than with them) and humour and his father's impatient nature."

With his wife Sophie by his side, Edward has become one of the most essential members of the Royal Family and is devotedly supporting his elder brother, a fact that is even clearer after the departures of Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Speaking about how close the King is with his youngest sibling, Ms Seward said: "The King has always been fond of his young brother, who was far closer to their father than Charles could ever hope to be.

"Ed, as he was called, got along well with Philip, and they worked very successfully on the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards Scheme. Until Edward took over. Charles knew that he would be a trusty pair of hands, especially with Sophie at his side. She really is the secret weapon."

Looking further ahead, royal author Robert Jobson has noted that Edward will also play a key role for his nephew, Prince William. "When William becomes King, Edward is likely to be a trusted confidant-someone he can bounce ideas off in private with a direct line to the wisdom and values of William's grandparents, the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip."

In moments not governed by royal duty, Edward and his wife Sophie enjoy a quiet life at Bagshot Park in Surrey with their children - when they are home from school and university - along with their three dogs, a cocker spaniel named Mole and two Labradors called Teal and Teasel.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh's marriage has been famously happy, with Sophie giving a gushing speech about her husband before his 60th birthday in 2024.

Prompting Edward to wipe away tears, Sophie said: "Like my father-in-law, my husband never seeks compliments for himself. So when acknowledgment has come his way it has always been a total surprise to him, which is why I am grateful for this chance to, for once, be able to publicly celebrate and compliment him... He is the best of fathers, the most loving of husbands and still is my best friend. So here's to you my darling Edward and may I along with all your family and so many friends and many others wish you the Happiest of Birthdays!"