Prince William jumps for joy with Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte in joy, as he celebrates his 42nd birthday.. see in full

As the Prince of Wales celebrates his 42nd birthday, the family have released what many are calling the best photo ever taken of the Waleses

Over the years we’ve come to expect certain things from official royal photos: British countryside, stately smiles, perhaps a tasteful pashmina. We have not, however, been privy to many images of the nation’s future King leaping off the sandy shores of a Norfolk beach hand-in-hand with the future of the monarchy.

Over the years we’ve come to expect certain things from official royal photos: British countryside, stately smiles, perhaps a tasteful pashmina. We have not, however, been privy to many images of the nation’s future King leaping off the sandy shores of a Norfolk beach hand-in-hand with the future of the monarchy.

It’s a break from royal convention, but one that the public are absolutely loving. Bear Grylls wished the Prince a happy birthday under the post, commenting ‘Fatherhood: example example examples and you do it beautifully’. DJ and television host Fearne Cotton added a love-eyed emoji, and countless supporters called it the ‘best picture’ they’d ever seen of the family.

It is yet another positive sign that the tight-knit Wales family are feeling stronger than ever as Princess Catherine slowly begins to return to public life as she continues her recovery from chemotherapy. Last week, the five royals were reunited on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to celebrate Trooping the Colour, and Prince William was seen enjoying Ascot with Kate’s parents, Carole and Michael Middleton.

It has been a turbulent year for the Prince of Wales, with family health problems and continued estrangement from his brother, Prince Harry. Throughout it all, William has ramped up his royal duties, hosting garden parties at the Palace, meeting with MI6, and undertaking tours of the Duchy of Cornwall.

As he celebrates his birthday alongside his family – after witnessing what many might consider a disappointing showing at the Euros yesterday – no doubt Prince William is raring and ready to leap into the year ahead.