Princess Beatrice receives new patronage in major announcement

King Charles III's younger brother Prince Edward supported his niece, Princess Beatrice, during her new role announcement at St James’s Palace on Thursday.

Andrew's eldest daughter Beatrice, 37, was appointed Deputy Patron of Outward Bound at the royal engagement. 

The charity welcomed the royal alongside her uncle the Duke of Edinburgh who assumed the role of Royal Patron.

The appointments continue a longstanding royal association with the charity - which aims to inspire young people - through wilderness adventures that dates back to Prince Philip, who held the patronage from 1953 until 2019. 

 Beatrice has maintained a six-year relationship with the organisation, having served as a trustee between 2019 and 2025.

Her dedication to fostering young people's confidence and ambition has been evident through numerous charitable engagements.

The princess's previous charitable efforts include hosting supporters at Holyrood Palace for afternoon tea and delivering a speech in 2022 commemorating her grandfather's contributions to Outward Bound. She also organised a reception at New York's Empire State Building last year.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere at St James's Palace, the York family continues to navigate difficult circumstances. The princess was photographed in an emotional embrace with her sister, Princess Eugenie, in Mayfair.

Their father, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, recently lost his royal titles and faces mounting pressure from American legislators regarding the Jeffrey Epstein inquiry.

His removal of titles by King Charles last month included the loss of his designation as Prince, Duke of York, Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh.

Beatrice's mother Sarah Ferguson also no longer uses the title 'Duchess of York' after her ex-husband Andrew gave up his titles.

He also forfeited the style "His Royal Highness" and must vacate Royal Lodge, relocating to private accommodation at Sandringham in the coming year.