In February 1972 the engagement was announced between Prince Richard of Gloucester and Birgitte van Deurs.

The marriage took place on 8 July 1972 at St Andrew’s Church, Barnwell in Northamptonshire, and thereafter they were known as Prince and Princess Richard of Gloucester.

Prince Richard is the second son of The Late Duke and Duchess of Gloucester (Prince Henry and Princess Alice) and is a first cousin of The Queen.

Following the tragic death of his older brother, Prince William, in a flying accident on 28 August 1972, and the death of his father in 1974, Prince Richard succeeded to his father’s title, The Duke of Gloucester, and his wife became The Duchess of Gloucester.

Her Royal Highness carries out many public engagements on behalf of her patronages and organisations and in support of The Queen.

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester have three children, Earl of Ulster,born in 1974, The Lady Davina Lewis, born in 1977 and The Lady Rose Gilman, born in 1980, all of whom are now married.

Earl and Countess of Ulster have one son, Xan, who is known by the courtesy title of Lord Culloden.