The Prince and Princess of Wales’ love story famously began on the cobble-stoned streets of St Andrews University, and, if the last six months have proved anything, it is that theirs is a love for the ages and can withstand any challenges.

“Happy birthday Papa, we all love you so much!” a message from Kate declared alongside a photograph of Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis jumping off a sand dune to mark William’s 42nd birthday on Friday.

This picture told us a great deal, according to former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond. As she reflects on how the last few months have been a test of the couple’s strong partnership, the expert points out how it also speaks volumes about their optimism for the future.

The last few months have been a test of their strong partnership,” Jennie exclusively told OK! “I think this photograph tells us that they are still able to jump for joy, even in the toughest of times, and that Kate has deliberately chosen a picture that speaks of their optimism for the future.

“She adores William – he is her rock and has supported her so selflessly through all of this and has taken flak from members of the public for not doing more and for devoting himself to her. So she adores her man. I think their marriage is stronger than ever.”

Looking back on William’s childhood where we grew up in a deeply fractured environment, Jennie adds: “It’s fabulous for William to be in such a happy marriage, having grown up in a house that was, broken in so many ways and to have witnessed the breakdown at very close quarters of his parents’ marriage.

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