The Queen's youngest son Prince Edward married Sophie, Countess of Wessex at St George's Chapel, Windsor, in 1999. The couple has since welcomed two children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn, and the family live just a short drive from the Queen's Windsor Castle residence at Bagshot Park in Surrey. Over recent years, Sophie is thought to have become a close confidante of the Queen, and she has been frequently entrusted to represent the monarch on official royal engagements.

       Here are some of the best photos demonstrating the Queen's amazing bond with her daughter-in-law, Sophie, Countess of Wessex.