Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s son, James Wessex, appeared to have received a surprise nod from the palace just a day after taking his father’s place at Royal Ascot last week.
St James’s Palace had shared an update on June 20 about an engagement the Duke of Edinburgh was set to undertake. However, it appears that Edward was replaced by his son in the announcement.
“The Earl of Wessex, Colonel, Scots Guards, this morning attended the Regimental Gathering at the Somme Barracks, Catterick Garrison, and was received by Brigadier General David Madden (Deputy Lieutenant of North Yorkshire).”
Royal watchers were quick to point out the error, as the publication is known for its near-perfect accuracy. The ceremonial post of Colonel of the Scots Guards, which belongs to Prince Edward in place of his 18-year-old son, who now holds the title of Earl of Wessex.
“A rare error in the judicial circular issued by Buckingham Palace,” royal expert Richard Eden pointed out. “It is the Duke of Edinburgh, not his son, the Earl of Wessex, who is Colonel of the Scots Guards.”
One fan responded that it wasn’t the first time this had happened.
“We’ve seen typos in publicly presented messages by Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, on 2 occasions. Falling standard across the board.”
Prince Edward had attended the annual gathering at the Somme Barracks at the weekend. The event is a major highlight for both serving and veteran Scots Guards to reunite and celebrate the regiment’s history.
