TRUSTED DUCHESS EMERGES AS A KEY ALLY TO PRINCESS OF WALES

Special bond that ties Kate & Sophie

- BY JENNIFER NEWTON Deputy Royal Editor

DUBBED the royal family's "secret weapon", Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, is fast becoming a frontline force in the monarchy's future.

Trusted abroad as one of King Charles's most dependable stand-ins, Sophie has also won the admiration of the Prince and Princess of Wales, who consider her a key ally for when their own reign begins.

Insiders say William and Kate are keen to have the down-to-earth duchess at their side in the critical years ahead, both as a reassuring public presence and to offer crucial family support behind palace walls.

In recent years, Kate and Sophie have grown ever closer, with the duchess offering much-needed comfort after a "brutal" year for the princess and her family.

Last November, as Kate attended Remembrance Sunday following her chemotherapy treatment, Sophie was seen placing a reassuring hand on her back.

The following month, Sophie was again at Kate's side during her annual Christmas carol concert. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond says: "Sophie has been there for Catherine from the start as a mentor, and perhaps as someone she can share the peculiar ups and downs of royal life with.

"I think they have a real mutual affection and friendship."