The one female royal relative who has been ‘tower of strength’ for Princess Kate this year

Princess Kate has been well-supported by her husband Prince William and her family during her cancer battle this year, however, there has reportedly also been one female royal relative who has helped the mum-of-three since her diagnosis.

According to royal biographer Claudia Joseph, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh has been a “tower of strength” for the princess during this scary time.

Claudia told Fabulous: “I’m sure that Sophie has been a tower of strength through Kate’s cancer diagnosis and will be there for her at the end of the phone whenever she wants a chat.

“They are incredibly close and live only 11 miles from each other – Kate in Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park and Sophie at Bagshot Park.”

The support between the two women could be seen on Sunday’s Remembrance service at The Cenotaph in London when the duchess was spotted placing a supportive hand on Princess Kate’s back at the end of the service.

The women also shared a number of supportive glances at one another as they watched the proceedings from a balcony.

While the support has no doubt been needed more than ever this year, Sophie – who is married to Prince William’s uncle Prince Edward – has been a stable figure for the princess since she joined the Royal Family in 2011, according to the expert.

Claudia said: “Interestingly, while Meghan rebuffed Sophie’s offer to mentor her on life as a royal, Kate gracefully jumped at The Queen’s suggestion – she saw her as a solid and trustworthy member of The Firm – and the women have become close as Kate adapts to her new role as Princess of Wales.

“She has found that Sophie is a true confidante and sounding board and they have developed a mutual respect and an unbreakable bond.”

According to reports, the bond between the pair has been strengthened, especially as they were in The London Clinic for operations at the same time in January.

Another member of the Royal Family believed to have been a great support to Princess Kate over the last 11 months is King Charles, who was diagnosed with cancer around the same time as his daughter-in-law..

A source close to Charles told The Times: “The King has always had a close, warm and unique relationship with the princess. She has a great love and respect for him and his position.

“When they were in hospital together there was a lot of toddling down the corridor to spend time with her. He has been encouraging and supporting her throughout.”

A source close to Charles told The Times: “The King has always had a close, warm and unique relationship with the princess. She has a great love and respect for him and his position.