Speaking to The Mirror ahead of the Duchess' landmark 60th birthday on January 20, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond said: "By any measure, Sophie has proved herself to be a major asset to the royal family, and William would be foolish to ignore the value she brings.".
Rather like how Sophie focuses on the difficult subjects of the eradication of sexual violence in conflict areas, female genital mutilation and gender equality, William also takes a realistic approach to his work by not shying away from challenging subjects like mental health and male suicide rates.
Inside Prince William's big plans for 'secret weapon' Sophie Wessex when he's on throne The Duchess of Edinburgh has rightfully climbed the ranks and has become one of the most popular working royals who backs difficult causes which previously received very little global attention.
Sophie's popularity is clear whenever members of the Royal Family step out in public and she clearly shares a close bond with the likes of King Charles, Queen Camilla and The Prince and Princess of Wales.
Reports that William will give his aunt a key role were provoked after a royal insider spoke to The Sunday Times and said: "They [the Waleses and the Edinburghs] get on very well."
